Several countries transitioning from third-world to emerging markets
Several countries who were formerly classified as third-world countries in terms of development have improved their economy and are now classified as emerging markets or nations. India is one of the countries that has made significant economic progress in recent years. The country's economic success can be ascribed to its big population, which results in a young population with around 65 percent of its inhabitants under the age of 35, resulting in a larger workforce (Sachs, Bajpai, & Ramiah, 2002). Nonetheless, various social and political challenges affect and impede India's progress as a growing nation. India and its leaders can, however, understand and use Marxism arguments and theories to eliminate barriers and ensure that the growth of the country continues.
Marxism as a solution for addressing social class issues
Marxism can be an attractive option for India and its leaders because it addresses the issue about social class and how it affects progress in society. According to Karl Marx, social change occurs as a result of the struggle between different classes within the society. As an emerging nation, India may focus on economic development which will lead the country to embrace capitalism. Karl Marx notes that in a capitalist society, the bourgeoisie who are the minority usually oppress the proletariat who are the majority and the working class which can result in a proletarian revolution (Parry, 2009). For instance, in India, the caste system has been used to differentiate between different classes. However, the leaders have been faced with the challenge of mass demonstrations against corruption which have made the ruling class to pass laws against graft (The Economist, 2011). The passing of these laws is considered a proletarian revolution because it was inspired by the demonstrations of the middle-class individuals. Therefore, Marxism concepts and theories will be beneficial to India as an emerging nation.
Tocqueville's perspective on democracy in India
Lastly, if Tocqueville was to visit India today, he might view the country as an aristocratic order. Tocqueville believed that a democratic order is one that allows liberty and equal rights to all its individuals (Kessler, 1977). Democracy is practiced in India. However, the presence of the caste system that at times limits the ambitions of an individual which results in inequality hence Tocqueville will not view it as a democratic order.
References
Kessler, S. (1977). Tocqueville on civil religion and liberal democracy. The Journal of Politics, 39(1), 119-146
Parry, J. (2009). “Sociological Marxism” in central India: Polanyi, Gramsci, and the case of the unions (pp. 175-202). Cambridge University Press.
Sachs, J. D., Bajpai, N., & Ramiah, A. (2002). Understanding regional economic growth in India. Asian Economic Papers, 1(3), 32-62.
The Economist. (2011). The new middle classes rise up. Retrieved from: http://www.economist.com/node/21528212
