Louis Althusser

What did Althusser argue the education system was part of?

An Ideological State Apparatus

How did Althusser think the bourgeoisie maintain power?

Through repressive state apparatus (coercive power like the police and army) and ideological state apparatus that spread bourgeois ideology and ensure that the proletariat is in a state of false class consciousness

How do schools act as ideological state apparatus?

They prepare working class pupils to accept a life of exploitation

How does Althussers ISA link to Durkheim?

Education serves to teach people the norms and values of society to preserve the value consensus- Althusser believes that these serve the interests of the ruling class

What type of consensus does ISA argue brings?

Capitalist consensus that prevents necessary social change

What are two ways that education can preform the ideological role?

The formal curriculum and through other aspects of school life (hidden curriculum)

How does the formal curriculum in education serve an ideological role?

It shapes the value consensus by deciding what is taught and not taught, influencing the values and beliefs students learn, often with a bias towards certain perspectives.

What did Michael Gove mean by advocating more British history in the curriculum?

He wanted to emphasize British history focusing on heroic moments (repelling invaders, winning battles, ending slavery, defeating fascism and all the great men and women and kings and queens) and ignoring more controversial aspects like colonisation or the slave trade.

How does the education system’s focus on “heroic” British history support conservative ideology?

It fosters a belief that Britain’s leaders are wise and just, encouraging students to preserve traditions and discouraging radical social change.

What role did the hidden curriculum play in education?

Teaches values like hierarchy, respect for authority, and obedience, which, according to Marxists like Althusser, serve to maintain the power of the wealthy and prevent social upheaval

How do functionalists view the hidden curriculum?

Functionalists see it as essential for societal stability - necessary for teaching social norms and skills needed for societal stability