About the Author

Karl Marx was a philosopher, socialist, sociologist, and journalist. He’s often been called one of the most influential figures in history and is the father of Marxism. His work was and is widely read, the most well-known being The Communist Manifesto. Regardless of whether it is praised or harshly criticized, Marx’s work changed the course of history.

Friedrich Engels was a German philosopher and social scientist. He was partner to Marx in founding Marxism and co-penning The Manifesto. Additionally, he published The Condition of the Working Class in England, among many other notable works.

Andrew Austin is associate professor and chair of democracy and justice studies and sociology at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. He has published numerous articles, essays, and reviews in books and journals. Most recently, in 2014, he published a series of articles in Sage’s Encyclopedia of Social Deviance.