Marxism/ Neo Marxism

Question 1

What do Marxists believe?

Answer 1

Society is in conflict between upper and w/c. The rich exploit the poor through labour. Marx believed the poor would recognise their exploitation and society would become communist.

Question 2

What is the base and superstructure?

Answer 2

Base = Relations/means of production - it shapes the superstructure
Superstructure = institutions/ other aspects of society that legitimise and maintain the base

Question 3

Cons of Marxism?

Answer 3

• Marx’s predictions on the collapse of capitalism have not come true
• It over emphasises class
• Only mentions two class - there is growth in the m/c

Question 4

Hegemony meaning?

Answer 4

Dominance of r/c ideas over others in society

Question 5

Gramsci thought

Answer 5

People’s ideas underpin the actions the make in society. R/c ideas dominate society, which maintains there power. Controlling people’s mind with ideas is more powerful than control by police/prisons.

Question 6

What is the ISA?

Answer 6

Ideological state apparatus - institutions that justify the power of the r/c. leaves the w/c in a state of false class consciousness.

Question 7

What is the RSA?

Answer 7

Government, Political parties

Question 8

Who came up with ISA and RSA

Answer 8

Althusser

Question 9

Cons of Neo-Marxism?

Answer 9

• Underplays the importance of the economy in shaping social reality
• Gramsci overemphasises ideas