(T4) Marxist Perspective of Education

Question 1

What is the Marxist perspective on education?

Answer 1

Education serves the interests of the ruling class, reproducing social inequalities and maintaining capitalism.
It legitimates class inequalities and is not meritocratic.

Question 2

What is Althusser’s view of education?

Answer 2

Education is part of the ideological state apparatus, reproducing class inequality.
It prepares working-class children for low-paid jobs and legitimates class inequality.

Question 3

What is the correspondence principle?

Answer 3

Education mirrors the workplace, teaching obedience and authority.
It prepares working-class children for lower-level jobs and promotes the myth of meritocracy.

Question 4

What is the myth of meritocracy according to Marxists?

Answer 4

Meritocracy is a myth used to disguise class inequalities.
Students are judged by their class, not ability or effort.

Question 5

How does Willis’ study challenge traditional Marxist views?

Answer 5

Willis’ study shows working-class boys (“The Lads”) resist the education system, rejecting its values.
He combines Marxist and interactionist views, showing resistance to indoctrination.

Question 6

What are criticisms of the Marxist perspective on education?

Answer 6

Postmodernists argue the economy requires more flexibility.
Marxists are criticised for being deterministic and ignoring individual agency.

Question 7

How do Marxists view the link between education and the economy?

Answer 7

Education prepares people for work, meeting capitalism’s needs.
It transmits skills and values to maintain the capitalist system.