False consciousness is a concept from Marxist theory describing a state in which members of the working class (proletariat) fail to recognize the true nature of their social and economic exploitation under capitalism. It refers to the systematic misperception or misunderstanding of their real position in society and their genuine interests, caused by dominant ideologies and cultural norms that legitimize inequality and oppression. This distorted awareness prevents them from seeing the exploitation they endure and thus hinders collective action to change the system
. The concept explains why workers and other subordinate groups might accept or even support social arrangements that work against their own interests, such as voting for policies favoring the wealthy or believing in meritocratic ideals like the American Dream. False consciousness acts as a barrier to class consciousness, which is the awareness of shared interests and solidarity necessary for revolutionary change
. Historically, the term was elaborated by thinkers like György Lukács, who saw false consciousness as a stage before achieving true class consciousness, and Antonio Gramsci, who linked it to cultural hegemony-the process by which ruling classes impose their worldview as common sense
. It has also been extended beyond class to explain oppression based on race, gender, and other social divisions
. In summary, false consciousness is the unawareness or misrecognition of one's exploitation and social position, shaped by dominant ideologies that maintain existing power structures and prevent social change
