The Luddites weren’t anti-technology—they opposed machines that destroyed their livelihoods and benefited factory owners at workers’ expense. Their resistance was a critique of the social and economic chaos caused by the Industrial Revolution. Over time, “Luddite” became an insult due to capitalist propaganda, dismissing their valid concerns about inequality and exploitation. Seen in context, they were early critics of unchecked capitalism and harmful technological change—issues still relevant today.

  • spujb@lemmy.cafeOPEnglish
    119·
    2 days ago

    I said “based” not “perfect in every single motive and tactic.” Marx didn’t totally rock with the Luddites himself, but he does express an understanding that the Luddites actions were a primitive and instinctive form of class struggle. This user explains it well:

    Marx was right about the luddites. The first phase of the development of working clas consciousness is destroying the machines that impoverish the workers. It is not the last phase.

    • socsa@piefed.socialEnglish
      103·
      2 days ago

      I mean if you are taking a Marxist lens then not really. Opposing technological progress because it makes your current job obsolete would be seen as pretty much the same kind of brain dead effort it is through a capitalist lens. At best it would be seen as a huge missed opportunity to put that effort into actual syndicalism instead of the public relations nightmare they chose.

      • spujb@lemmy.cafeOPEnglish
        113·
        2 days ago

        We literally referenced Marx right there, so yes really haha. (I just edited my comment so the quote is more accessible.)

        To further break it down, while Marx did not romanticize the Luddites (nor do I), he saw their actions as an understandable and early form of class struggle (as do I).