Engels’ Satirical Description of Rich People’s Misery Still Relevant Today

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9 月 28, 2024 #engels, #suffering, #乌有之乡

上海的陆家嘴

The Enduring Relevance of Engels’ Critique of Rich People’s Woes

Engels’ scathing critique of those who lament the suffering of thewealthy remains relevant today, particularly in China, where a growing class divide mirrors the very issues he addressed.

In his work, The True Socialists, Friedrich Engelsdissected the writings and actions of German true socialists, exposing their hypocrisy and highlighting the absurdity of their claims. He particularly ridiculed those who focused on the supposed hardshipsfaced by the wealthy, a phenomenon that echoes in contemporary China.

Engels’ sharp words resonate in a China grappling with its own widening wealth gap. While some may argue that China’s economic reforms have led to a necessary riseof a capitalist class, Engels’ analysis reminds us that such a development can easily lead to a system where the wealthy exploit the working class.

He also addressed the issue of intellectuals who claimed to be part of the proletariat. Engels argued thatthese individuals, who often belonged to the most contemptible class of all, would be exposed as frauds when the working class rose up. This resonates with the current Chinese online landscape, where intellectuals are frequently criticized by netizens for their perceived detachment from the realities of ordinary people.

Engels’ insights go beyond mere social commentary. Heemphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals for the working class, goals that can be realized in the near future. This is crucial, he argues, to prevent Marxism from becoming a mere utopian ideology, akin to a religion focused on an apocalyptic future.

His words serve as a timely reminder for those advocating for a more equitablesociety. It’s not enough to simply envision a distant communist utopia. We must actively engage in the present, fighting for tangible improvements in the lives of the working class.

Engels’ critique of the true socialists remains a powerful tool for analyzing contemporary social and economic dynamics. His wordsremind us that while the pursuit of a communist society may be a long-term goal, the struggle for a more just and equitable present is essential.

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