Marxism

What is an ideology?

A set of ideas legitimizing the social and economic dominance of a group.

What is historical materialism and the critique of 'idealism'?

The theory that ideas are produced in conditions of life, which drive social change. Not the other way around.

What is the significance of 'Capital' written by Marx?

It outlines his economic theories and critiques capitalism.

What does Marxism say about capitalism?

It critiques the concentration of wealth and the exploitation of labor.

How does Marxism relate to art history?

It critiques art as ideological, reflecting and distorting social realities.

What is symbolic violence in art according to Marxist critique?

The representation of the rural poor in a way that idealizes their labor while obscuring their real conditions.

What does the term 'avant-garde' refer to in the context of art?

Art that exposes and critiques dominant ideologies.

What is neoliberalism?

A system governing since the mid-20th century characterized by market deregulation and competition.

What is the relationship between ideology and social class in art appreciation? What is wrong with this?

Judgment of taste is influenced by social class, where finer things are appreciated by those in higher classes. 'I appreciate finer things = I am more deserving.

The Hay Wain

Constable, 1821: It shows how labor is idealized and the real conditions of the rural poor are obscured.

What is the paradox of viewing art through a Marxist lens?

Art can be seen as a reflection of reality but also as a distortion that serves to protect the status quo.

How does Marxism view the role of art in society?

Art can serve as a critique of dominant ideologies and act as a form of activism.

What is the impact of the market crash in 2008 on neoliberalism?

It raised questions about the sustainability of the neoliberal order.

What does Marxism imply about the relationship between labor and enjoyment?

As labor increases, enjoyment decreases, highlighting exploitation.

The Bar at the Foiles-Bergere

Manet, 1882: we can see in front of her, which exposes the dominant ideology. Does she fit?

What is the critique of the 'fetishism' in art?

Art can become a spectacle that distracts from the underlying social issues.

What is the role of the factory owner in Marxist theory?

The factory owner extracts surplus value from the labor of workers.

What is the difference between liberalism and neoliberalism?

liberalism makes exchange the focus of all life, and neoliberalism adds a layer of competition.

What subjectivity is produced by neoliberalism?

homo economicus

What are some consequences of neoliberalism?

The individual is to blame for their own poverty. The weakening of the public sphere. The end of liberal democracy through eroding understanding of collective.