Family and Households -Marxism Flashcards
What is the Marxist perspective on society?
Marxism is a ‘structural conflict’ perspective that sees society as structured along class lines.
Who are the two main classes identified in Marxism?
- The Bourgeoisie
- The Proletariat
What is the primary conflict in Marxist theory?
Conflict of interests between The Bourgeois and The Proletariat.
Why does conflict rarely lead to revolution in Marxist theory?
Institutions like the family perform the function of ‘ideological control’.
What does ‘ideological control’ mean in the context of Marxism?
Convincing the masses that the present unequal system is inevitable, natural and good.
How does Marxism view the emergence of the nuclear family?
The nuclear family emerges due to the needs of the Capitalist system.
According to Engels, when did the monogamous nuclear family emerge?
With the advent of Capitalism.
What characterized traditional, tribal societies before Capitalism?
They were classless and practiced a form of ‘primitive communism’.
What is a ‘promiscuous horde’ as described by Engels?
A social structure in tribal groups with no restrictions on sexual relationships.
What is the main economic principle of Capitalism?
Private ownership.
How do the Bourgeois ensure the preservation of their wealth?
By passing it on to the next generation through the monogamous nuclear family.
What is the outcome of the nuclear family structure according to Marxism?
It reproduces inequality; rich children inherit wealth while poor children remain poor.
What is a criticism of Engels’ theory regarding gender inequality?
Gender inequality preceded Capitalism.
What correlation is observed in wealthy Capitalist economies regarding gender equality?
Fast improvements in gender equality over the last 100 years.
How does contemporary Marxism view the family?
As an ideological apparatus promoting values that maintain capitalism.
In what way does the family serve as a unit of consumption?
It builds demand for goods.
What is ‘Keeping up with the Joneses’?
Families acquiring material goods/services to match their neighbors and peers.
How do companies target children in advertising?
Children persuade their parents to buy more expensive items through pester power.
What is a criticism of Marxism regarding determinism?
It assumes people passively accept socialisation and family life.
What aspect of family diversity does Marxism ignore?
The increasing number of women working full time.
What do feminists argue regarding Marxist focus?
It ignores the inequalities between men and women, the real source of female oppression.
What is a benefit of the nuclear family that Marxism overlooks?
Both parents can support the children.
