Marxism Flashcards
What does Marxism have in common with functionalism?
It tends to share the view that society is a structure or system that shapes individuals’ behaviour and ideas
Briefly outline two ways in which Marxism differs from functionalism.
- Conflict of interest: Reject functionalist view that the social structure is a harmonious one based on value consensus. Instead, they see it as based on a conflict of economic interests between social classes of unequal power and wealth.
- Instability and change: Reject functionalism’s view of society as stable, and stress the possibility of sudden, profound and revolutionary change. Stability is merely the result of the dominant class being able to impose their will on society.
Briefly explain the similarities between Marx and Durkheim.
- Like Durkheim, Marx saw both the harm caused by the modern industrial society that was taking shape in 19th cent. Europe, and the promise of progress to a better world that it held.
- Marx believed it was possible to study society scientifically and that this knowledge would point the way to a better society - he described his theory as ‘scientific socialism’.
Briefly outline how Marx saw historical change.
As a contradictory process in which capitalism would increase human misery before giving way to a classless communist society in which human beings would be free to fulfil their potential.
According to Marx, how would a classless society be brought into being?
By conscious human action.
“Philosophers have merely interpreted the world; the point, however, is to change it.”
Define materialism.
Materialism is the view that human are beings with material needs, such as food, clothing and shelter, and must therefore work to meet them. In doing so, they use the ‘forces of production’.
According to Marx, why do humans enter into social relations of production?
In working to meet their needs, humans also cooperate with one another: they enter social relations of production - ways of organising production.
Which two classes emerge along with the division of labour?
Bourgeoisie: A class that owns the means of production. Proletariat: A class of labourers.
Briefly explain the following Marxist concept:
- Mode of production
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Briefly explain the following Marxist concept:
- Economic base
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Briefly explain the following Marxist concept:
- Superstructure
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What were the three key features of primitive communism?
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Briefly explain what is meant by surplus product.
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What form of exploitation is each of the following class societies based on:
- Ancient society
- Feudal society
- Capitalist society
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Define bourgeoisie.
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