The Marxist Perspective

Question 1

Why do Marxists think the family exists?

Answer 1

To benefit the Bourgeoisie and exploit the Proletariat

Question 2

What do many institutions in society do?

Answer 2

Reproduce the class system

Question 3

What did Engels say about people before they owned property?

Answer 3

They lived in ‘promiscuous hordes’

Question 4

What did Engels say about the transmission of property?

Answer 4

Passing property to legitimate heirs reduced disputes about who should inherit the wealth

Question 5

Why does the transmission of property benefit capitalism?

Answer 5

The rich inherit wealth, the poor inherit nothing

Question 6

Name a Marxist sociologist

Answer 6

Althusser

Question 7

What does Althusser suggest a major function of the family is?

Answer 7

To socialise children into believing capitalism is fair and just. And that hierarchy is inevitable

Question 8

Define alienation

Answer 8

Frustration over the lack of control over work

Question 9

What does Ansley suggest women are?

Answer 9

The ‘takers of shit’ from men

Question 10

Name 2 key ideas in the Marxist perspective

Answer 10

Keeping up with the Jones’

Pester power