Marxism: Key Terms

Question 1

Capitalism

Answer 1

An economic system based on private ownership of business.

Question 2

Bourgeoisie

Answer 2

The rich who owned the means of production (the factories, etc.)

Question 3

Proletariat

Answer 3

The working class who are exploited by the Bourgeoisie.

Question 4

Exploitation

Answer 4

Taking advantage of someone or a group of people for personal gain. The Bourgeoisie exploited the Proletariat through unfair pay.

Question 5

Ideology

Answer 5

A set of ideas and values.

Question 6

Ideological state apparatus

Answer 6

Institutions that spread bourgeois ideology and ensure that the proletariat is in a state of false class consciousness and control. E.g. School, religion or the media.

Question 7

Repressive state apparatus

Answer 7

Institutions that control society through coercive power.
E.g. Army, police, prison system.

Question 8

False class consciousness

Answer 8

Where the proletariat are unaware of the exploitation they are facing.