In Karl Marx's theory, which concept refers to the awareness of common interests and political action among members of a class?

The concept that refers to the awareness of common interests and political action among members of a class in Karl Marx's theory is class consciousness. This idea is foundational in Marxist theory, as it highlights the importance of individuals within a particular social class recognizing their shared circumstances and goals.

Class consciousness enables members of a class, particularly the working class or proletariat, to understand the economic and social structures that influence their lives, fostering a sense of solidarity. It is essential for mobilizing collective action aimed at challenging the existing power structures and advocating for social change. In Marx’s view, this collective awareness is crucial for the proletariat to organize effectively against the bourgeoisie, or capitalist class, leading to potential revolutionary changes in society.

The other concepts in the question—socialism, proletariat, and hierarchy—relate to different elements of Marxist thought but do not directly pertain to the collective awareness and political organization among class members. Socialism is the political and economic system that Marx advocates as a transition to a classless society. The proletariat refers to the working class itself, while hierarchy pertains to the structured levels of authority and organization within society. These concepts do not capture the specific idea of consciousness or awareness that informs collective action.