p The superstructure, brought into being by the basis, also possesses relative independence which is manifested in the continuity of its development. A revolution in the superstructure, which takes place when the old basis is replaced by the new, does not signify the automatic elimination of all the features of the old superstructure. With the destruction of the old basis, the old superstructure as a whole, as a system of views and institutions of the old society, ceases to exist. But its individual features outlive the basis which gave rise to the old superstructure and pass into the superstructure of the new society. The new superstructure takes only those elements from the old one which can serve the classes of the new society, and are consistent with their interests. For instance, a newly emerged exploiter society assimilates only those ideas of the old superstructure which vindicate exploitation and uphold political and legal institutions of the exploiters.

p The superstructure of any society also has non-transitory features which are important for all mankind. These include man’s general moral standards and the finest creations of literature and art.

p Because of its continuity, the superstructure of each society is very complex. It incorporates both the ideas and institutions inherited from the old society and the ideas and institutions which grew up on its current economic basis.

p The relative independence of the superstructure is also seen in that, having arisen on the economic basis, it plays an active part in the development of this basis. The ideas and institutions prevailing in an antagonistic class society protect and strengthen its basis. They justify the rule of the class which brought them into being and whose interests they are destined to defend. In antagonistic societies these ideas and institutions are the theoretical means of sanctifying and organising the struggle of the ruling class against other classes, above all against the working classes, stifling their desire for liberation from exploitation, colonial and other oppression.

Let us take, for example, bourgeois ideas and institutions. When the capitalist basis was taking root, they actively contributed to its development and consolidation and were a powerful weapon in the struggle against the feudal class. Now that the capitalist basis has been doomed by history, bourgeois ideas and institutions are used for crushing progressive forces in order to preserve it at any cost, and to prevent or at least postpone the fall of capitalism. Capitalism is still alive, above all, because its interests are guarded by the bourgeois state and law, by all the media of ideological influence which play an extremely big role in the defence of capitalism.