Towards a theory of theoretical formations: From Althusser to Lenin

In his theoretical efforts, Lenin made two excursions into philosophy - first in the book Materialism and Empirio-criticism then Philosophical Notebooks. There are obvious differences between these works, which reflected attitude towards Hegel (first rejection enthusiasm acceptance of Hegel?s dialectical method), but also significant similarities. The paper points out that what links Lenin?s books is concept formation. We derive term formation from socio-economic formation: every society, a large number modes production coexist, overdetermined by one mode as dominant. Society thus not complete rounded form, contradictory overdeterimned main thesis applies over determined to reading philosophy. discourse never whole split irreconcilable tendencies materialism idealism. work nothing struggle for dominance tendency another. This philosophical is, Louis Althusser out, an extension class theory takes place both entire history within each individual text. text unequal combined development.