Understanding Capitalism: An Introduction to Capital

An important note from the organizers: As this is a pilot version of the course, online participation may be limited in order to ensure a manageable class size for our instructors. In person participation is highly recommended for those in the Greater Toronto Area. 

Frustrated with capitalism and its impacts on human beings and the planet? Do you believe that a more equitable, democratic, and liberatory society is possible?

Waking up from the capitalist nightmare requires a clear understanding of what we are up against: how we understand capitalism, how it works, and how it compels us to act in certain ways – these all shape what kinds of strategies will be needed to move beyond it.

This course will approach these questions and others through An Introduction to the Three Volumes of Karl Marx’s Capital by Michael Heinrich, one of most approachable and understandable guides through Marx’s masterwork. Capital remains the most important work of critical analysis of capitalism in history, through its exploration of the economic principles that govern capitalism, and the problems faced by workers and society.

Why not just read Capital directly? Capital is infamously long and difficult! Many aspiring socialist activists over the years have plunged in head first, only to find the language daunting and the ideas hard to grasp. Heinrich’s book gives a compact, concise, and clear presentation of the main points, providing a solid understanding of how capitalism functions.

We will discuss the most common questions raised by Heinrich’s book (and Marx’s three volumes of Capital), as well the political and practical relevance of the material today. Understanding capitalism isn’t just an intellectual exercise, it’s a key part of how we begin to build a better world!

When - Sunday September 20, weekly until November 8. All classes 2-5pm

Where - Toronto ON + Online

How - Advance registration required

Cost - Free/recommended donation: $40

All are welcome to this introductory 7-week course. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into socialist politics and full of questions, or an experienced activist wanting to revisit your understanding of capitalism, we’d love for you to join us!

Participants will be asked to read along as we work our way through a 220 page book over seven weeks. A free PDF or at-cost physical copy of the book will be made available. 

The course will be taking place both in-person in Toronto, and online via Zoom, upon request. Please note that space for this course is limited and selections may be made to ensure a participant group with a variety of experiences.

The Leo Panitch School for Socialist Education emerged in 2023, at a moment when popular frustrations surged over inequality, the narrowing of democracy, the squandering of human potential, and the reality of impending environmental catastrophe. It’s in this context that we strive to provide radical, accessible, and practical educational programming for those seeking to better understand and address the crisis of our current times.

Accessibility

The venue for this event is wheelchair accessible and features multiple gender neutral washrooms. We ask that participants refrain from wearing perfume or other scented products. Please contact us with any accessibility concerns.