Is there a better way to honor the working-class struggle than to study Karl Marx’s “Capital” on Labor Day? How about reading along with distinguished City University of New York professor David Harvey, who after almost 40 years is still teaching the book?

“Capital” is a significant part of Marx’s lifelong attempt to understand what occurs in capitalist societies through a careful analysis of empirical evidence. He sought to give scientific ammunition to capitalism’s critics, and his description remains every bit as crucial today as when it was first published in 1867, when capitalism’s birth pangs were still being felt around the world.

See Harvey’s complete online course here and check out his written guide to “Capital,” published last year by Verso Books, here. –ARK

David Harvey:

Wait, before you go…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

Support Truthdig