Abstract: Marx made a preliminary exploration and construction of a better life of mankind in Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts (1844)， a book with rich meanings of life philosophy. Starting from the economic facts， Marx constructed an ideal picture of a better life， including “the realization of reconciliation between man and nature， society and self as well as the diversification and constant satisfaction of spiritual life based on abundant material living conditions”. Marx revealed the realistic constraints of a better life， namely the loss of “labor happiness” under the rule of capital， the confrontation of social relations caused by alienated labor and the one-sided development of people under the restriction of private property. Marx pointed out the ways to achieve a better life， that is， getting rid of the capital bondage， abandoning the alienated labor and establishing the real community.

Key words: Karl Marx, Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844, a better life