Some economist have criticized Marx’s theory of surplus (additional) value. According to them, this theory does not seem relevant at present.
The criticism given by them can be understood through the following facts :
- Lack of scientific knowledge : Scientists say that Marx’s theory of additional value is not real. It can be used to show that labours are exploited in capitalism.. This theory is not based on any certain scientific base.
- Neglect of capital : Marx’s statement that only labour is the producer of value is wrong. In fact, capital is needed to produce value. Without capital, there is no value of labour.
- Special stress on revolution : In this theory, Marx told that revolution is the only solution of labour’s problem. This is not right.
- Special stress on labour’s strength : Marx gives special stress on the labour’s strength but he forgets that her much strength has decreased because it cannot be measured. Its price cannot be measured or certified by its production expense.
- Immaterialism of theory : This theory is immaterial. In this method, we can only understand as to how labours are exploited by capatalists.
- Principle of exploitation : It is shown in this theory that capitalists exploit labour. Thus, it is said that ‘It is not the principle of value but in fact, it is the theory of exploitation.
Thus, it is clear by above mentioned facts that the principles given by Marx, the relevance of surplus/additional value remains very less.
