What is Marxism–Leninism?
A single vanguard party runs a fully state-owned, centrally planned economy — the model of the Soviet Union.
On our 12-axis map it is defined by collective ownership (98%), planned markets (98%), secular faith (96%) and central power (90%), and stays fairly neutral on culture and tradition. On the two-axis compass it falls in the Authoritarian Left area.
What Marxism–Leninism stands for
Wealth and key industries should be shared, taxed and run more democratically.
Governments should steer prices, jobs and investment toward public goals.
Religion is a private matter and should stay out of law and government.
A strong national government keeps rights, rules and services the same for everyone.
Authoritarian Left
Economic -9.6 · Social +7 (−10 to +10).
Biggest difference: nation — Marxism–Leninism is more global (62% vs 40%).
Biggest difference: ownership — Marxism–Leninism is more collective (98% vs 50%).
Biggest difference: rule — Marxism–Leninism is more authority (85% vs 28%).
Nearest historical thinkers: Karl Marx (75%), Niccolò Machiavelli (71%) and Thomas Hobbes (70%).
Marxism–Leninism, axis by axis
Government
World
Economy
Society
Profiles are simplified summaries of mainstream positions; real movements vary by country and era. Methodology.
FAQ
Is Marxism–Leninism left or right?
On the classic political compass Marxism–Leninism sits at economic -9.6 and social +7 (−10 to +10), which places it in the Authoritarian Left area. Economically it leans toward equality and collective ownership.
What does Marxism–Leninism believe?
A single vanguard party runs a fully state-owned, centrally planned economy — the model of the Soviet Union. Its most defining positions are collective on ownership, planned on markets, secular on faith and central on power.
What ideologies are similar to Marxism–Leninism?
The closest profiles on our 12 axes are Maoism (89% similar), Technocracy (75% similar) and Left-Wing Populism (69% similar).
Am I a Marxism–Leninism supporter?
Take the free 12 Axes test: your result shows your match percentage with Marxism–Leninism and 30 other ideologies.