MARXISM Flashcards
what is Marxism?
A social conflict theory that focuses on the negatives of capitalism
what is a conflict theory?
a theory that society is in a state of perpetual conflict because of competition for limited resource
what are the 2 distinct groups in capitalist society?
the Bourgeoisie
the Proletariats
describe the Bourgeoisie
the owners of the factories, these had lots of wealth, took up important jobs in politics business etc and were able to dictate peoples lives
describe the Proletariats
the working classes who work on a day to day basis, they had little wealth
the Bourgeoisie’s main ideology?
profit > benefit of society
what was KARL MARX’s main argument?
that the capitalist system was exploitative of the working class Proletariats
give a prime example of a Marxism ideology apparatus
the family
this is seen as an institution that keeps the capitalist system in place
why is the family seen as an institution that keeps capitalism in place?
family is the main influence of socialisation
children are socialised to accept the values and norms associated with capitalism ‘working hard for ruling classes’
they are taught to obey authoritative figures and accept the social and economic hierarchy
saying for the passing down of social values
‘pass the parcel’
this maintains the class inequalities
in the Marxist’s view what are the repercussions of capitalism?
the working class remain exploited
the ruling class family maintains its economic function
why does the family enforce materialism?
because it is seen as a unit of consumption, which in turn contributes to capitalism as the family consumes products and services
what are the 4 main influences on Capitalist attitudes in Marxism?
Mass media (advertisement)
The family (consumerism)
Education (work harder)
Employment (focus on making profits)
main criticisms of Marxist view
outdated, focus on nuclear family rather than extensive range of diverse alternatives
highlights the extent of class inequalities but not other factors such as gender, sexuality and ethnicity which can effect personal relationships
