This incisive overview of Marx′s sociological theories begins by considering the interplay of historical events and intellectual currents which shaped his thinking and examines the development of key isues in Marxist theory - determinism, voluntarism and reconciliation of the two. The second section begins with a specific discussion of Marx′s thought - in particular the philosophical aspects of his writings which present ways in which humans are capable of shaping their historical destiny. The author then considers Marx′s view of capitalism as a constraint on determinism, and demonstrates the ambivalence evident in his writings. The final section offers Marx′s reconciliation of the issues raised in the preceding chapters, focusing on his theory of political action, his view of the future, and parallel questions of determinism and freedom, structure and action, and reflecting on his scientific method.