ABSTRACT
This chapter contributes to greater understanding of contemporary transformations in capitalism and to assist in the development of the analytical foundations of historical materialism. The analysis suggests that the concepts of class and mode of production continue to be relevant, but must be adapted to accommodate transformations in both class and productive relations associated generally with the globalization of capitalism. It focuses on the role that law plays in the global transformation of class relations and the mode of production. The corporate world is responding to intensified competition brought about by processes of globalization with specific and limited attempts to relink property with territory, state, and law. The chapter argues that the law is not neutral in impact and a significant challenge for historical materialism is recognizing the significance of law. The challenge for historical materialism is to show how the law relates to the mode of production and to class relations.
