Marxism theory

Marxism is a conflict theory developed by Karl Marx and argues that society is based on class struggle between the bourgeoisie and proletariat- The system benefits the ruling class at the expense of the working class

Concepts

Society is divided in to two main classes-

Bourgeoisie (capitalist class)- Owns the means of production (factories, land, business)

Proletariat (Working class)- Sell their labour to the bourgeoisie for wages but are exploited

Exploitations of surplus value

Surplus value- The extra profit made by the bourgeoisie from workers labour

Exploitation- Workers are paid less than the value of what they produce

False consciousness

Workers don’t realise they are being exploited

The ruling class controls ideology to maintain the system

Class consciousness and revolution

Eventually workers will become aware of their oppression

This will lead to a proletariat revolution, overthrowing capitalism and creating a classless society

Neo-Marxism

Antonio Gramsci (Hegemony)- Ruling class maintains power through controlling ideas (media, education, religion) rather than just economic power

Louis Althusser (Ideological state apparatus)- Institutions like education and the media keep the working class under control by shaping their beliefs

Criticisms of Marxism

Overemphasises economics and ignores factors like gender and ethnicity

Middle class has expanded- Not just two classes anymore

Revolutions haven’t happened in capitalist societies as predicted

Some argue capitalism has adapted (welfare state, minimum wage)