Marxism: Family

Question 1

Key points of Zaretsky’s argument:

Answer 1

Argues that the family props up capitalism and tries to keep it going in spite of its self-destructive qualities

Argues women provide free labour

Question 2

Althussers argument:

Answer 2

Ideological state apparatus role of the family as parents socialise children into accepting a false class consciousness

Argued capitalism is maintained by carefully manipulating people into accepting an unfair system as well as using force to control them

Question 3

Key points of Engels argument:

Answer 3

Nuclear family emerges because of capitalism. These families allow for: Bourgeois men can pass their wealth and property to the eldest son meaning the family can keep wealth through inheritance

Inheritance is assured by making sure the relationship is monogamous