"The only conclusion you can draw from the real historical movement is that by and large, in day-to-day life, what Lenin called trade union consciousness dominates the working class. I would call it elementary class consciousness of the working class"

This quote by Ernest Mandel is describing the idea that the working class is largely driven by a sense of class awareness. This is an idea that Lenin referred to as "trade union awareness" and is the concept that the working class is aware of their place in society and the requirement to eliminate for their rights and interests. This class awareness is seen in the genuine historic movement of the working class, and is the only conclusion that can be drawn from it. Mandel calls this elementary class consciousness, as it is the basic understanding of the working class that they are not equivalent to those in power and should defend their rights. This class awareness is the driving force behind the working class motion and is necessary for the working class to accomplish their objectives.