This work investigates the enduring relevance of Marxist thought in a post-Cold War era, specifically addressing the ethical and political implications of the 'specter' of Marx. Jacques Derrida, a foundational figure in deconstructionist philosophy, utilizes the framework of hauntology to argue that the collapse of Soviet-style communism does not signify the end of history or the death of Marxist critique. He examines the global debt crisis and the rise of the 'New International' as sites where the ghost of Marx continues to exert influence on contemporary political discourse.

Scholars and philosophers frequently cite this text as a pivotal contribution to late 20th-century political philosophy. Readers often note the high academic density of the prose, which requires a strong familiarity with Derrida's deconstructive methodology.