Engels’ Scathing Critique of the “Rich” Still Resonates Today

Engels’ Satire on the Rich Remains Relevant Today

By [Your Name]

Friedrich Engels, the co-author of the Communist Manifesto,was a keen observer of his time. He was not only a theorist but also a sharp critic of the social and economic inequalities of his era. In his writings,he often used satire to expose the hypocrisy and contradictions of the ruling class. One such example is his critique of those who wrote about the suffering of therich.

In his work, The True Socialists, Engels derided those who depicted the wealthy as victims of their own success. He argued that such portrayals were nothing more than attempts to deflect attention from the real plight of the workingclass. He wrote, When the German proletariat comes to settle accounts with the bourgeoisie and other propertied classes, they will use the streetlights to demonstrate to these gentlemen, to the most despicable class of all despicable classes, what kind ofproletarians they really are.

Engels’ words resonate even today, particularly in the context of contemporary China. While some may argue that the rise of a new class of wealthy individuals in China is a sign of progress, Engels’ critique reminds us that the existence of a propertied class can lead tosocial and economic disparities that can be detrimental to the well-being of the majority.

Engels also cautioned against focusing solely on the distant future of a communist utopia. He argued that what will come to pass in ‘thousands of years’ is simply irrelevant to us. This is a timely reminder for Marxists today. While the ultimate goal of communism may be a long-term vision, it is crucial to focus on immediate and achievable goals that can improve the lives of people in the present.

Engels’ insights into the nature of class struggle and the importance of focusing on practical, achievable goals remain relevant today. His sharp wit and insightful observationsserve as a valuable reminder that social progress is not a passive process but requires constant vigilance and action.

References:

Engels, F. (1847). The True Socialists.
余斌老师读原著|微信公众号. (2024, September 1). 恩格斯讽刺的描写“富人”苦楚的文字今天依然可以见到. 乌有之乡. 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