Pronunciation: [lˈʌda͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "Luddite" is spelled with a double 'd' and an 'e' at the end, despite being pronounced with only one 'd' sound. This is because the word comes from the name of a British labor movement leader, Ned Ludd, who was known for destroying industrial machinery in the early 19th century. The term "Luddite" now refers to someone who opposes technology and progress. Its IPA transcription is ˈlʌd.aɪt.
The term "Luddite" originated in the early 19th century during the Industrial Revolution. It refers to a person who opposes or resists technological advancements, particularly those involving machinery and automation.
A Luddite is often characterized by a strong preference for traditional methods and a deep skepticism towards modern technology. They may harbor concerns about the negative impacts of these innovations on society, particularly in terms of job losses, socioeconomic inequality, and the erosion of human skills and craftsmanship. Luddites may believe that technology disrupts the natural order, threatens human autonomy, and diminishes the quality of life.
Furthermore, a Luddite is commonly associated with resistance and direct action against the adoption and implementation of technological advancements. This opposition may manifest as sabotage or even violence, as witnessed historically when textile workers destroyed machinery in an effort to protect their livelihoods.
In contemporary usage, "Luddite" has evolved beyond its original context and has become a more broad term. It is now commonly employed to describe individuals who exhibit skepticism or resistance towards any form of technological change, albeit to varying degrees. While some Luddites may reject all technology entirely, others may selectively resist certain innovations. The term has also expanded metaphorically to encompass individuals who resist other forms of progress or changes, fostering a general aversion towards any form of disruption.
The word "Luddite" originated in early 19th-century England, specifically during the Industrial Revolution. It is derived from the name "Ned Ludd", supposedly a mythical figure (sometimes associated with a real person) who was believed to be a leader of a group of textile workers in the Midlands of England.
The Luddites were known for their opposition to the mechanization of the textile industry, as they feared the loss of their jobs and the degrading effects of new technology. They protested by destroying and sabotaging machinery, particularly the labor-saving devices used in mills and factories.
Over time, the term "Luddite" came to represent a person who is resistant or opposed to technological change and prefers traditional methods. In modern usage, it is often used to describe individuals who are skeptical or fearful of new technologies or are hesitant to adapt to them.
