Equivalence and Antagonism in Marx’s Theory of Value

The centrality of abstract labor in the Marxian theory value seems to imply an essentialist position incompatible with Ernesto Laclau’s poststructuralist hegemony. However, this essay argues that theory—in interpretation offered by Moishe Postone—is fact very much compatible focus on social contingency insofar as it understands a framework relations. This raises question: if abstract-labor equivalence does not derive from metaphysical essence, then how emerge socially constructed universality? already anticipated logics difference, equivalence, and empty signifier, work antagonism can strengthen argument involve essentialism. central point is thus interpret contingent hegemonic formation, constituted upon antagonistic exclusion directly useful work.