Answer: CLASSWAR

Class war refers to a social conflict or struggle between different social classes, typically associated with Marxist ideology. It stems from the fundamental belief in Marxism that society is divided into two primary classes: the bourgeoisie (or capitalist class) who own the means of production, and the proletariat (or working class) who sell their labor to the bourgeoisie. Class warfare typically involves a struggle for power, resources, and control between these two classes. The Marxist perspective perceives this conflict as inevitable and an inherent aspect of capitalist societies.

Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Conflict associated with Marxism. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.