lumpenproletariat

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Word: Lumpenproletariat

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Explanation:

The term "lumpenproletariat" comes from Marxist theory and refers to a group of people in society. Specifically, it means the unorganized and often marginalized members of the working class (the proletariat) who are not actively working towards social or political change. They may be struggling financially or socially but are not interested in or involved in revolutionary movements that aim to improve their situation or the society around them.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "lumpenproletariat" when discussing social classes, especially in contexts related to Marxism or political theory.
• It is often used in academic or political discussions, so it might not be a word you hear in everyday conversation.

Example:

• "In his writings, Marx described the lumpenproletariat as a group that is disconnected from the struggles of the organized working class."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex discussions, the term can be used to critique certain societal behaviors or movements. For example: - "The rise of consumerism has created a lumpenproletariat that prioritizes immediate gratification over long-term social change."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "lumpenproletariat," but related terms include:
  • Proletariat: The working class, especially those who do not own the means of production.
  • Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class that owns most of society's wealth and means of production.

Different Meanings:

• While "lumpenproletariat" primarily has a political and social meaning, it can also be used more broadly to describe any group of people who are seen as unproductive or disengaged from societal progress.

Synonyms:

• Marginalized class
• Disenfranchised workers
• Unorganized laborers

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with "lumpenproletariat," but you might encounter phrases like: - "Falling through the cracks" (meaning being neglected or overlooked by society). - "Living hand to mouth" (meaning living with very little income, often associated with the lumpenproletariat).

Summary:

"Lumpenproletariat" is a specific term used in Marxist theory to describe a portion of the working class that is unorganized and uninterested in revolutionary change.

Academic

Noun

1. (Marxism) the unorganized lower levels of the proletariat who are not interested in revolutionary advancement