Marxism

Question 0

What does Marx describe as the history of the family?

Answer 0

1st classless society- primitive communism. ‘Promiscuous horde’ Engels
Increase if wealth means development of private property and class. Bourgeoisie those who own means of production.

This creates THE PATRIACHAL MONOGAMOUS NUCLEAR FAMILY

Question 1

What is the Marxist view on the family?

Answer 1

The functions it performs are for the benefit of the bourgeoisie not the proletariat.

Question 2

Why does Engels say the modern family is patriarchal?

Answer 2

Control female sexuality to produce heir
Economic deal- dependency extension of prostitution
Can only be liberated with revolution.

Question 3

Why does Engels say the family is monogamous?

Answer 3

Ensure paternity of heir.

Question 4

When does Engels say women’s liberation will occur?

Answer 4

With the revolution

Question 5

Family as a unit of consumption.

Answer 5

Worker reinvest more than earn due to peer pressure and pester power.
‘Keeping with jones’- say good parent can provide extensive amount, accept low pay and high hours to achieve

Women reserve army of labour, less bargaining rights.

Question 6

Family’s ideological functions

Answer 6

Push towards privatisation, less support means don’t unite against.

Question 7

Benston and Mitchell and ideological functions

Answer 7

Parental power asserts inequality and male dominance

Question 8

Zarestky 1976

Answer 8

Family as haven is an illusion can’t meet needs. Conflict of inequality prevents men and women uniting against ruling elite.

Question 9

Benston

Answer 9

Women’s servitude increasing companies profit.

Question 10

Criticisms of Marxism

Answer 10

Assume passive victims
Old fashioned- other reasons for family and marriage
Ignores increase in family diversity and positives of the family
Feminists- ignore double exploitation and conflict.