Theories: Marxism Flashcards
What is marxist view in education?
- A conflict view (contrasts functionalism).
- Critical of the capitalist system and the inequality it produces.
- Society and education based on class division and exploitation.
- Believe society is an unfair system built upon the exploitation of those who lack power, by those who possess it.
- Division creates class conflict → w.c. realise they are exploited → this would lead to revolution - but education is used to teach the ideas that will prevent a revolution.
Who are the bourgeoisie?
The top (capitalist class). They are the minority class but own and control the means of production and dominate wealth.
Who are the proletariat?
The bottom (working class). They are the majority who provide their labour to the bourgeoisie. They suffer, resulting in exploitation - paid less than the value of what they produce.
What is the ISA?
- ISA = ideological state apparatuses → control over people’s ideas, beliefs and values (no physical force).
- Pass on the ruling class’ dominant ideology through institutions such as family, religion and education.
What is the RSA?
RSA = repressive state apparatuses → physical control through institutions, for example, the police, the military and the justice system.
What does Althusser state about the ISA and RSA?
RSA = repressive state apparatuses → physical control through institutions, for example, the police, the military and the justice system.
Does Althusser believe in meritocracy?
- No - he believes it is a myth that has to be constantly reinforced so that inequalities are legitimised.
What did Althusser state that education has replaced as the most important ISA?
Religion.
What does Althusser state that the education system does?
- It passes on ruling-class ideology and teaches basic skills needed to perform in capitalist society.
- The W.C. is therefore forced to fail and ends taking up low status, low paid, alienating work roles.
- = Social class inequalities are reproduced.
Who introduced tuition fees and who made them more expensive?
The Labour government introduced tuition fees and the Conservative government made them more expensive.
How is an ideology used in this case with the capitalist society?
It justifies inequalities by forcing workers to accept their place and believe they deserve their position.
What research did Bowles and Gintis carry out and what did they find? (5 points)
Researched schools in the USA and found that:
- Education rewards those who will be submissive and compliant workers, for example, rewards for punctuality.
- Education limits student development rather than encouraging it.
- Meritocracy is a myth.
- Capitalism requires a workforce that will accept exploitation.
- The education system functions to produce the required workforce.
What is the correspondence principle?
The link between education and work (called the correspondence principle). For example, both have hierarchies (bosses and heads).
What did Bowles and Gintis find when researching the correspondence principle?
- The relationships and structures in education mirror those in work.
- This works through a hidden curriculum - not subjects but ideas (e.g. competition + hierarchy).
What did Cohen say about the correspondence principle (youth training schemes)?
Youth training schemes teach young people values rather than skills. They accept low paid work.
