foundations + structural vs action theories

What was the enlightenment project?

idea that society could develop through human reasioning + science

Give the 4 key characteristics of a modern society (4)

• the nation state (leaders, laws + territory)

• capitalism

• science/technology

• individualism

Describe the concept of a structural theory (3)

• large scale

• idea that individual behaviour is molded by social institutions

• 2 branches: conflict and consensus

Describe the concept of an action theory (3)

• small scale

• looks at creative action people can take instead of being passive victims to society

• to do with the interactions between individuals

Conflict vs consensus - Structural theories

consensus: agents of society with different roles work together so that it runs smoothly

conflict: society and its agents creates inequalities between groups and individuals

Key ideas of marxism (4)

• unequal distribution of wealth and power between classes

• capitalism root of societal issues

• change only possible via revolution

• the superstructure (wealth of ruling class allows them to control society via institutions)

Describe how the superstructure works in marxist theory (2)

• capitalism decides what role each institution must play in society

• we accept capitalism because the institutions tell us to

In marxism, how does the superstructure maintain the base? (capitalism)

• means of mental production (dominant ideology which prevents proletariat from questioning the system, false class-consciousness)

• armed bodies of men (taught we should get a job and consume, so there is a continious workforce)

Liberal feminism (3)

• modern society is making progress but it is not fixed yet

• root problem is socialisation

• laws help, but mindsets need to change to achieve equality

Radical feminism (4)

• men as the enemy

• oppression is in public and private spheres

• political lesbianism - heterosexual relatioships are inevitably oppressive

• separatism - women should live apart from men

Marxist feminism (5)

• patriarchy is rooted in capitalism, position will improve when capitalism is overthrown

• women are cheap labour

• women are a reserve army of labour (moved into workforce during war then back into homes)

• reproduce and nurture next generation of workers

• absorb husbands anger from workplace due to the exploitation

Difference feminism (2)

• women are not a homogenous group so they do not experience patriarchy in the same way

• other branches ignore ethnicity, class, age etc