Based on objective social relationships, Marx and Engels firmly opposed idealistic views that deify heroic figures and exaggerate their historical role. Through profound analyses of the relationships between heroes and the masses, heroes and the state, and heroes and history, they established a materialistic view of heroes. This perspective reveals the dialectical laws governing the emergence of heroes, affirms the materialist historical view that the masses are the true heroes, transcends the idealistic historiography of hero-worship, and provides scientific theories and methods for correctly understanding heroic figures, their historical roles, and promoting the spirit of heroism. In the new era, Marx and Engels’ view of heroes retains significant value:it not only provides a theoretical foundation for the Communist Party of China to maintain its people centered stance, but also provides a value guidance for promoting the spirit of heroism, and serves as an ideological weapon for critiquing historical nihilism. 

　　Editor: Zhong Yao  LiuTingting 

　　From:Journal of Shanghai Jiaotong University(Philosophy and Social Sciences).2025.No.8.