Functions - Marxism Flashcards
How many functions did Marx believe the family performs to support capitalist system?
3
What is the inheritance of property (function 1)
Primitive society - everything was shared, everyone lived as “promiscuous horde.”
No responsibilities or commitments, didn’t need to know your children as no property to inherit.
Capitalism introduced - people started to buy means of production, own land so become R/C - others have to sell labour to survive - w/c
Capitalist society - married monogamous family developed so men can be sure their inheritance goes to their children. Marriage brought women’s sexuality under control.
What is the second function Marxists believe stated by Zaretsy?
Ideological functions - family performs key ideological functions for capitalism - set of ideas or beliefs that justify inequality.
NF cushions effect of capitalist exploitation, appears to provide safe haven.
Man has no status at work, so will try to gain it at home, possibly leading to violence and abuse.
Produces next generation of exploited workers - teaches kids to know their place and obey those of status.
What is the third function stated by Marxists and Marcuse?
Unit of consumption - families buy and consume lots of factory based products.
Dad’s work in factories to produce products for basic wage.
Goods are sold for higher profit than workers wage.
Families buy products, giving their wage back to their employer.
What does Marcuse say advertisers create?
False needs through advertisement - encourage materialistic attitude of success, the more you own, the greater your success.
THIS IS MYTH TO BRAINWASH W/C TO BUY CAPITALIST GOODS TO MAKE THEM WEALTHIER
What is pester power?
Advertisers appeal to wives and children to have the latest products.
Dad’s then forced into buying products which means their wage goes back to R/C.
