Marxism and Religion

The aim of Marxists is to fight for the socialist transformation of society on a national and international scale. We believe that the capitalist system has long ago outlived its historical usefulness and has converted itself into a monstrously oppressive, unjust, and inhuman system.

We believe that it is the duty of any humane person to support the fight against such a system which involves untold misery, disease, oppression, and death for millions of people in the world. We wholeheartedly welcome the participation in the struggle of every progressive person, irrespective of nationality, the color of their skin, or their religious beliefs. We also welcome the opportunity of a dialogue between Marxists and Christians, Muslims, and other groups.

However, in order to fight effectively, it is necessary to work out a serious program, policy, and perspective that can guarantee success. We believe that only Marxism (scientific socialism) provides such a perspective.

This booklet compiles three articles, Marxism and Religion by Alan Woods, Religion and Secularism by John Pickard, and Socialism and Religion by V.I. Lenin. All three articles take up the question of religion from a dialectical materialist (Marxist) point of view, analyzing the development and material reasons for the existence of religion, and perspectives for the future of religion and socialism.