Dialectics of Nature

Historical Context and Significance

Friedrich Engels' «Dialectics of Nature» represents an attempt to apply dialectical materialism to the natural sciences. Written in the late 19th century, this work reflects Engels' effort to show that the laws of dialectics, which he and Karl Marx applied to society and history, are also applicable to nature. The book had a significant impact on the development of Marxist philosophy and scientific worldview, promoting the integration of natural sciences with philosophy. It also stimulated discussions on the role of science in society and how scientific discoveries can be interpreted through the lens of dialectical materialism. The influence of this work was particularly felt in countries where Marxist ideology had significant sway, especially in the Soviet Union, where it was used to justify scientific and technological achievements in the context of socialist construction.