Beyond Alienation: Applying Karl Marx's Perspicacity to Boost Employee Engagement.

This article examines the intersection of Karl Marx's theory of alienation with contemporary employee engagement practices, arguing that Marx’s framework offers valuable insights for understanding and addressing workplace disengagement. It explores the four dimensions of alienation—estrangement from the product of labour, the labour process, one’s own humanity, and other workers—and relates these to modern challenges such as technology-driven surveillance, gig work, and remote employment. The study highlights strategies grounded in empowerment, meaningful work, recognition, personal development, and inclusive culture to mitigate alienation and enhance employee engagement, drawing on theories like Self-Determination Theory. Practical examples from companies such as Google, Infosys, and Tata Consultancy Services illustrate how integrating Marxist concepts with contemporary management can foster more motivated, connected, and productive workforces.