Meaning: Bertrand Russell, a renowned philosopher, mathematician, and social critic, made this thought-provoking statement about the admiration of the proletariat in the context of the machine age. In this quote, Russell draws a parallel between the admiration of the working class (proletariat) and the admiration of industrial and technological marvels such as dams, power stations, and airplanes. To fully appreciate the depth and significance of Russell's statement, it is essential to delve into the historical and ideological backdrop of the machine age and the role of the proletariat within it.

During the machine age, which roughly spans from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, there was a profound shift in the way societies operated. Industrialization, technological advancements, and the rise of mass production transformed the economic and social landscape. The working class, or proletariat, played a pivotal role in this era as they were the laborers who operated the machines, toiled in factories, and formed the backbone of industrial production. The admiration of the proletariat during this period can be understood as a recognition of their contribution to the unprecedented progress and productivity brought about by the machine age.

Russell's comparison of the proletariat to dams, power stations, and airplanes can be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it suggests that the admiration of the working class is akin to the admiration of these technological marvels because they are all essential components of the machine age. Dams, power stations, and airplanes symbolize the power, efficiency, and ambition of the industrial era, just as the proletariat symbolizes the labor force that drove this era forward. Secondly, by aligning the proletariat with these symbols of industrial progress, Russell may be highlighting the dehumanizing aspect of the machine age, where human beings are reduced to mere cogs in the machinery of production.

Furthermore, Russell's reference to the "ideology of the machine age" is significant. It points to the overarching beliefs, values, and attitudes that characterized the era of industrialization and technological advancement. The machine age brought with it a fervent belief in progress, efficiency, and the power of human ingenuity to shape the world. This ideology celebrated the achievements of technology and industry, often at the expense of human well-being and individual autonomy. The admiration of the proletariat within this ideology may have been a way to glorify the sacrifices and hardships endured by the working class in the name of progress.

In contemporary terms, Russell's quote can also be viewed through the lens of labor relations and social justice. The admiration of the proletariat can be seen as a recognition of the resilience, strength, and importance of the working class in society. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that laborers play in sustaining economies and driving progress. However, it also raises questions about the treatment of workers, their rights, and the potential exploitation that can occur within the framework of the machine age or any modern industrial society.

In conclusion, Bertrand Russell's quote about the admiration of the proletariat in the context of the machine age offers a poignant reflection on the interplay between industrial progress, human labor, and societal values. It prompts us to consider the complex dynamics of power, ideology, and human agency within the broader narrative of technological advancement. By drawing parallels between the admiration of the working class and the admiration of industrial achievements, Russell encourages us to critically examine the role and treatment of labor in our ever-evolving society.