RUNNING DOG Meaning and
Definition
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The term "running dog" originated as a political metaphor used to criticize individuals or groups who obediently support and propagate the agenda of a ruling authority or dominant power. It describes those who uncritically align themselves with the ideologies and policies of those in authority, suppressing their own independent thought and blindly following their superiors' directives.
This term first gained prominence in the context of communist ideologies, particularly during the Chinese Cultural Revolution in the mid-20th century. Mao Zedong used it to denounce individuals within the Communist Party who took a more moderate stance or displayed loyalty to capitalist countries, accusing them of promoting the interests of the bourgeoisie. In this sense, a "running dog" is considered a traitor to the cause of the working class and a collaborator with the ruling class.
Over time, the term has broadened beyond its initial political context and is now used more generally to criticize individuals who are seen as lackeys or sycophants. It implies blind obedience, lack of independent thought, and an unwillingness to challenge authority or consider alternative perspectives. Contemporary usage of "running dog" tends to be derogatory, aimed at dismissing or discrediting individuals who are perceived as blindly submissive to power structures without critically assessing their motives or actions.
Common Misspellings for RUNNING DOG
- eunning dog
- dunning dog
- funning dog
- tunning dog
- 5unning dog
- 4unning dog
- rynning dog
- rhnning dog
- rjnning dog
- rinning dog
- r8nning dog
- r7nning dog
- rubning dog
- rumning dog
- rujning dog
- ruhning dog
- runbing dog
- runming dog
- runjing dog
- runhing dog
Etymology of RUNNING DOG
The term "running dog" has its origins in a derogatory phrase commonly used in political rhetoric, particularly in Chinese and Marxist contexts. It is often attributed to Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People's Republic of China, who frequently used the term to denigrate his political opponents.
The Chinese term "pao gou" (跑狗) translates to "running dog" and was seemingly used metaphorically to describe someone who blindly and obediently follows others without thinking critically or questioning authority. This derogatory term was adopted and adapted by Marxist revolutionaries to refer to those who supported and colluded with capitalist or imperialist powers, often labeling them as lackeys or servants to these powers. The metaphor draws on the image of a dog obediently following its master's commands.
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