The Spanish Constitution of 1812: A Landmark of Early Liberalism
Abstract
The first Spanish liberalism emerged during the crisis of the Spanish monarchy and the French intervention in Spanish affairs. In May 1808, Charles IV and Ferdinand VII left Spain to meet with Napoleon, who decided to pass the crown to his brother Joseph I. This led to a power vacuum and the uprising of May 2nd, marking the start of the first military operations.
The Rise of the Boards and the Central Junta
Faced with the passivity of the authorities, Juntas (governing councils) emerged as
Read MoreMercantilism: Economic Theory and Practice
Mercantilism
Mercantilism is a set of economic ideas that posit a nation’s prosperity depends on its capital. The overall volume of world trade is considered unchangeable. Capital, represented by bullion (precious metals) held by the state, is increased primarily through a positive trade balance (exports exceeding imports).
Core Principles
Mercantilism suggests that national leaders should strive for these objectives through protectionist economic policies. These policies promote exports and discourage
Read MoreMarx’s Theory of Work and Historical Materialism
Society
A) Work
Marx rejects the idea of a universal human essence, like Hume proposed. He believes humans are primarily practical beings, defined by their constitutive praxis: work.
Work is the human activity of transforming nature. This activity connects people to nature, builds society, and establishes relationships between individuals. Humans are defined by the sum of these social relations. Ideally, work humanizes and liberates: it constitutes what it means to be human and, through interacting
Read MoreInfrastructure and Superstructure: Exploring the Base and Edifice of Society
Infrastructure and Superstructure
Infrastructure (Economic Structure)
The infrastructure, also known as the economic structure, forms the material base of society. It determines social structure, development, and change. This includes the productive forces and the relations of production, and it influences the superstructure.
Superstructure
The superstructure encompasses elements of social life dependent on the infrastructure. This includes religion, morality, science, philosophy, art, law, and political
Read MoreNeoclassical Economics and the Second Industrial Revolution
Influence of the Second Industrial Revolution
The late 19th century saw rapid technological and production advancements, marking the Second Industrial Revolution. Key factors included the application of chemistry to industrial processes, advancements in transportation (steam navigation and railways), and the advent of electricity.
Key Differences from Classical Thought
Neoclassical economics differed from classical thought in two key aspects:
- Focus on Individuals: Neoclassical economics centers on
Social Influence and Motivation in the Workplace
Compliance
Compliance is the social influence process whereby a person or a minority modifies their feelings, opinions, and behaviors toward the position held by the majority group as a result of physical or symbolic pressure it exerts.
Innovation
Innovation is the process of minority influence on the majority. It occurs in a situation in which most have already developed a criterion, which is then modified because of the influence of the minority.
Blind Obedience
Blind obedience is a special case of
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