Class traitor facts for kids

A class traitor is a term used to describe someone who is believed to be working against the interests of their own social group. This idea often comes from socialist ways of thinking.

Socialists believe that society is divided into different groups, or "classes." The main ones are the working class (called the proletariat) and the wealthy, owning class (called the bourgeoisie). A class traitor, in this view, would be a member of the working class who helps the wealthy class, even if it hurts their own group.

For example, people like police officers or soldiers might sometimes be called class traitors because they help keep the current system in place. Also, a "strikebreaker" (someone who works during a strike, preventing workers from getting what they want) could be seen as a class traitor.

However, some people think that anyone, even those from the wealthy class, can be considered a class traitor if they act against their own class's interests.

Why Someone Might Be Called a Class Traitor

People might be seen as class traitors for different reasons:

• Survival: They might take any job they can get, even if it means working against their class's goals, just to survive.
• Different Beliefs: They might genuinely believe they belong to a higher class or have political views that don't support the working class.
• Following Rules: They might feel pressured to follow laws and rules, even if those rules don't help their class.
• Disagreeing with the Idea of Class Struggle: They might not agree that society is divided into fighting classes at all.

Who First Used the Term?

The term "class traitor" was first used by Karl Kautsky. He was a very important Marxist thinker and philosopher.

Wealthy Class Traitors

The term "class traitor" can also be used in a different way. It can describe members of the upper class (the wealthy) who actually believe in socialism.

These individuals might give up some of their advantages or status within the capitalist system. They do this to support what they see as the oppressed or working class, even if it means losing their own social standing.