Leninism, or Marxism-Leninism, is a economic theory based on economic determinism. Developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, in its applied form was further developed by the Bolshevik leader Vladimir Lenin. Lenin argued that the proletariat can only achieve revolutionary consciousness through the efforts of a communist party that assumes the role of "revolutionary vanguard". Lenin further believed that such a party could only achieve its aims through a form of disciplined organization known as democratic centralism. Other beliefs of Lenin included the need to spread the communist revolution to other countries, a belief that imperialism is the highest stage of capitalism, and the exclusion of any compromise with the bourgeoisie.