What is the ideological state apparatus simple?

ideological state apparatus A term developed by the Marxist theorist Louis Althusser to denote institutions such as education, the churches, family, media, trade unions, and law, which were formally outside state control but which served to transmit the values of the state, to interpellate those individuals affected by …

What is meant by describing religion as an ideological state apparatus?

Louis Althusser argues that religion is a part of the ideological state apparatus. Along with education and the media, it transmits the dominant ideology and maintains false class consciousness. Religious teachings encourage the proletariat to believe that the way society is organised is God’s will.

What is ideology according to Althusser?

Althusser’s point is that the economy is fundamentally structured by exploitation, and this exploitation always produces conflict. Ideology is a second-order formation that strives to ensure the continuation of the capitalist mode of production and continuing working-class adherence to a system that oppresses them.

What is the main function of education as an ideological state apparatus?

According to Althusser, education operates as an ideological state apparatus in two ways; Firstly, it transmits a general ideology which states that capitalism is just and reasonable – the natural and fairest way of organising society, and portraying alternative systems as unnatural and irrational Secondly, schools …

How does Marx view religion?

According to Karl Marx, religion is like other social institutions in that it is dependent upon the material and economic realities in a given society. It has no independent history; instead, it is the creature of productive forces. As Marx wrote, “The religious world is but the reflex of the real world.”

How does the ideological state apparatus work?

Marxist sociologist Louis Althusser suggests that the bourgeoisie maintain power by using both repressive state apparatus (coercive power like the police and the army) and ideological state apparatus: institutions that spread bourgeois ideology and ensure that the proletariat is in a state of false class consciousness.

How is the family an ideological state apparatus?

The family is described as an ideological apparatus – this means it socialises people to think in a way that justifies inequality and encourages people to accept the capitalist system as fair, natural and unchangeable.

What does Althusser say about education?

Althusser argues that education is an ideological state apparatus that passes on the ideologies of the capitalist ruling class. Education justifies capitalism and legitimises inequalities. Meritocracy is a capitalist myth used to subdue the working class and create false consciousness.

What is the important role the teacher and the educational environment play in Marxist educational theory?

The teacher’s role in habit formation is crucial according to Marxist educational theorists. First, the teacher teaches more by example than by precept (especially with younger children). In all his word and actions the teacher must be a perfect example of the ideal Communist so that his pupils will emulate him.

What did Louis Althusser believe education?