Engels and Zetkin on the Economic Roots of War, Overlooked by Einstein and Freud

In a recent article in Der Freitag, Ingar Solty revisits the historical debate between Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud on the causes of war and its prevention, arguing that their analysis omitted the role of capitalism. Solty points to the writings of Friedrich Engels and Clara Zetkin, who emphasized economic forces driving conflict. The article references World War I, described by many historians as the 'original catastrophe' of the 'short 20th century' (1914–1991), noting that it was initially seen as just and romantic, with death on the 'field of honor' considered 'sweet and honorable.' Solty highlights that the last major war between France and Germany (1870–71), which led to the founding of the German Empire in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles and the Paris Commune, occurred nearly a generation earlier. Despite the passage of 43 years, war had not disappeared but was merely fought elsewhere. The article is part of the current issue of Der Freitag.