Final answer:
In George Orwell's novel 1984, Winston believes that the proles have retained their individuality, freedom, and ability to think independently, while Party members have lost these qualities due to the oppressive control of the Party.
Step-by-step explanation:
Winston, the protagonist in George Orwell's novel 1984, believes that the proles (the proletariat) have retained their individuality, freedom, and ability to think independently, while Party members have lost these qualities due to the oppressive control of the Party.
The Party in 1984 represents a totalitarian government that seeks to eliminate any form of individuality or independent thought. Party members are constantly monitored and subjected to strict conformity, whereas the proles, who make up the majority of the population, have relatively more freedom and are not as closely controlled. Winston perceives the proles as a potential source of rebellion against the Party's oppressive regime because they have the ability to challenge the Party's control and overthrow their oppressors.