Question
Download Solution PDFComprehension
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on it:
Althusser argues that no class can hold power for any length of time simply by the use of force. Ideological control provides a far more effective means of maintaining class rule. If members of the subject class accept their position as normal, natural and inevitable, and fail to realize the true nature of their situation, then they will be unlikely to challenge ruling class dominance. Physical force is an inefficient means of control compared to winning over hearts and minds. The maintenance of class rule largely depends on the reproduction of ruling class ideology. Thus Althusser argues that ‘the reproduction of labour power requires not only a reproduction of its skills, but also, at the same time a reproduction of its submission to the ruling ideology’. This submission is reproduced by a number of ‘Ideological State Apparatuses’ which include the mass media, the law, religion and education. Ideological State Apparatuses transmit ruling class ideology thereby creating false class consciousness which largely maintains the subject class in its subordinate position. In pre-capitalist society, Althusser sees the church as the dominant ideological state apparatus. In capitalist society it has largely been replaced by the educational system.
False class consciousness does not make people :
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe correct answer is - accept the insubordination
Key Points
- False class consciousness
- It is a term in Marxist theory that refers to the way in which material, ideological, and institutional processes mislead the proletariat about the true nature of their social and economic situation.
- False class consciousness can lead to the working class accepting ideas and beliefs that are contrary to their own best interests.
- Accept the insubordination
- This means not recognizing or accepting the authority or leadership that exploits them.
- False class consciousness does not make people accept insubordination because it masks the true power dynamics and inequalities that exist.
Additional Information
- Working class ideology
- Refers to the set of beliefs and values that are in line with the interests of the working class.
- False class consciousness often prevents the working class from fully adopting and acting upon this ideology.
- Role of institutions
- Institutions like the church, media, and education play a significant role in perpetuating false class consciousness by promoting ideas that maintain the status quo.
- They often disseminate ideologies that justify social inequalities and discourage critical thinking about social structures.