Fellow-traveler

A 'fellow-traveler' is an individual, typically an intellectual, who sympathizes with and supports the aims and activities of a political party or movement, often communist, without being a formal member. They generally share the same ideological goals and may collaborate in various projects, though they maintain a degree of independence or non-membership for ideological or practical reasons. The term emerged during the Cold War to describe those who leaned towards communism but weren't card-carrying party members, sometimes implying a naive or idealistic alignment with the movement. Their support, though not officially bound, offers valuable backing to the cause.

Fellow-traveler meaning with examples

• During the politically charged era, many artists and writers were labelled 'fellow-travelers', supporting leftist causes through their creative works and public pronouncements without directly joining the Communist Party. They saw communism as a force for social justice and equality. This alignment caused controversy and, in some cases, career repercussions as the Cold War intensified, casting suspicion on their loyalties.
• The journalist, known for his insightful coverage of labor issues, was often cited as a 'fellow-traveler' due to his consistent sympathetic reporting on workers' rights movements. While he never officially joined any political organization, his writings often mirrored the rhetoric of the socialist and communist parties of the day. His stance, though questioned by some, aided the promotion of labor rights.
• Many scientists engaged with the Soviet Union as 'fellow-travelers', hoping to further the progress of science within a socialist paradigm, seeing this as a means to develop technologies that could benefit the common good. Their engagements however raised concerns during that tense era, as suspicions of espionage became rampant and often damaged the image of progress.
• The professor, although critical of certain aspects of communism, identified as a 'fellow-traveler' because he saw it as an alternative to capitalism that offered solutions to economic and social inequality. He supported socialist academics in their initiatives, but chose not to become part of the bureaucratic structure. His perspective was seen as controversial.
• In the context of cultural exchange programs during the Cold War, some Western intellectuals were effectively 'fellow-travelers', advocating for improved relations with the Soviet Union. They didn't hold official memberships but aimed to promote peaceful cooperation. They shared similar philosophical views, which, despite being seen with suspicion by some, still opened dialogue.