Marxism and Weberian theories Flashcards
Who created marxism?
Karl Marx
What is Marxism?
Society is based on class division between those who benefit from class divide and those who do not
What type of theory is Marxism?
Conflict theory
How did Marx describe the economic system of modern society?
Capitalist societies based on ruling class making profit and the working class being inferior. He said it was unequal and exploitative
What did Marx argue about the working class?
They would become aware of the exploitation and attempt to overthrow the ruling class and create a communist society run to benefit everyone
What did Louis Althusser argue 1971?
Capitalism has survived by developing a ideological state apparatus
What are ideological state apparatuses?
transmitting ideas that justify the capitalist system and its inequalities including institutions such as school and family life. encouraging consumption of goods made by ruling classes
What was Marx’s idea of false consciousness?
Working class see no alternative to the system
How does Marxism link to functionalism?
Both focus on structures in society. Particularly in relation to institutions
What is the superstructure in Marxism?
Includes all cultural institutions of society shaped by requirements of the infrastructure of economic systems
What is included in the economic infrastructure?
- family
- education
- mass media
- religion
- politics
What are the strengths of Marxism?
- offers a critical view of capitalism
- highlights exploitation and inequality
Why did Marxism face criticism?
- the false consciousness suggests people are not conscious of their own interests
- only focuses on economic inequalities
Who created Weberian Theories?
Max Weber
What are Weberian theories?
A focus on differences of status and power instead of economic position alone
