A METHODOLOGICAL COMPARISON BETWEEN MARXIST - LENINIST POLITICAL ECONOMY AND MODERN ECONOMICS

Abstract

This article explores the philosophical and methodological foundations of Marxist - Leninist political economy in comparison with dominant approaches in contemporary mainstream economics. Using a comparative analytical framework, the study contrasts the principles of dialectical and historical materialism with methodological orientations commonly associated with mainstream economics, such as positivism, marginal analysis, mathematical modeling and econometric techniques. The analysis identifies key differences in underlying worldviews and research orientations: Marxist - Leninist political economy emphasizes historical context, structural relationships and socio-economic transformation, whereas mainstream economics tends to prioritize formal modeling, micro-level analysis and empirical validation. At the same time, the study highlights areas of methodological complementarity between the two traditions. It argues that a pluralistic and integrative approach - combining philosophical reflection on historical and social structures with rigorous analytical and empirical tools - can enhance the explanatory capacity of economic research and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of contemporary economic challenges related to sustainable and inclusive development.