With the declassed character of lumpenproletarians in…
““With the declassed character of lumpenproletarians in mind, Marx had stated that they are as capable of “the most heroic deeds and the most exalted sacrifices, as of the basest banditry and the dirtiest corruption.”9 He emphasized the fact that the provisional government’s mobile guards under the Paris Commune—some 24,000 troops—were largely formed out of young lumpenproletarians from fifteen to twenty years of age. Too many Marxists have been inclined to overvalue the second part of Marx’s observation—that the lumpenproletariat is capable of the basest banditry and the dirtiest corruption—while minimizing or indeed totally disregarding his first remark, applauding the lumpen for their heroic deeds and exalted sacrifices.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Marx noted that the lumpenproletariat can perform both heroic sacrifices and corrupt acts, warning against one‑sided judgments.
In simple terms: Lumpen can be noble or corrupt.
Key Takeaway
Recognize complexity in people.
Themes
class
morality
politics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
duality
revolution
social class
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance praise and critique of marginalized groups?
- What factors drive heroic versus corrupt behavior?
A Different Perspective
Marx’s view is often oversimplified in modern discourse.