How commonly is Karl Marx assigned on college campuses?

I've heard that readings by certain philosophers like Karl Marx are often assigned in college. Is Marx one of the most commonly assigned authors on college campuses, specifically in social science or humanities classes?

Indeed, many college courses, especially those within the humanities or social sciences, often incorporate Karl Marx's works or ideas. His influence is significant in areas such as philosophy, history, sociology, political science, and economics. To be exact, how often Marx's work features can vary a lot depending on the curriculum, the instructor's preference, and the specific discipline of study.

For instance, in a sociology or political science class, you might encounter his theories on societal structures and economic systems, perhaps through reading sections of "The Communist Manifesto" or "Capital." In a philosophy course, you may delve into Marx's dialectical materialism and his critique of capitalism. A globalization or international relations course might also reference Marxist theories to analyze current global power structures and periphery-core relationships.

However, it's important to note that being "commonly assigned" doesn't necessarily mean his work is universally agreed upon, or that classes will focus exclusively or primarily on his ideas. Expect to delve into a balanced spectrum of philosophical and theoretical perspectives in most liberal arts classes, where Marx is often part of a broader curriculum that may also feature contrasts and critiques to his theories.

Just remember, coursework can vary widely between colleges—even between courses in the same subject at the same college—so it's challenging to generalize. Check course syllabi or consult with professors if you're particularly interested in studying Marx's work in depth.