Marxism and the Family | A Level Sociology - Families

Introduction to Marxism and the Family

  • Critical perspective on the family as an agent of social control.

  • Reinforces ruling class ideologies and serves capitalism's needs.

  • Family structure keeps working class in false class consciousness.

  • Promotes the belief that family care equates to personal success.

Key Marxist Theorists

  • Friedrich Engels:

    • Analyzed the evolution of family structures supporting capitalism.

    • Transitioned from polygamous relationships to monogamy with property ownership.

  • Louis Althusser:

    • Proposed the family as an ideological state apparatus controlling working-class thought.

  • Arlie Hochschild:

    • Examined the commodification of family relationships and increasing alienation from work to home.

  • Zaretsky:

    • Explored the family’s function in serving capitalism in the 1970s.

Engels' View on Family Evolution

  • Suggested capitalism altered family unit functioning.

  • Predicted existence of a "promiscuous horde" before capitalism.

  • Emphasized the importance of monogamy for inheritance.

    • Monogamous relationships emerged to secure property for biological heirs.

    • Control over women's sexuality leads to patriarchal structures; women seen as providers of heirs in exchange for stability.

Feminist Criticism of Engels

  • Critique on focus solely on economic necessities.

  • Viewed as a form of patriarchal control over female sexuality.

  • Lack of evidence for Engels' concept of the "promiscuous horde."

  • Adultery and uncertain paternity undermine Engels' monogamous integrity claim.

Althusser's Ideological State Apparatus

  • Family responsibilities help maintain societal obedience and conformity.

  • Ruling classes influence parental child-rearing norms and values.

  • Socialization of children with expectations rooted in ruling class perspectives.

  • Families subjected to scrutiny by institutions (e.g., education, religion) for adherence to norms.

  • Critiques on lack of empirical evidence supporting Althusser's theories; views considered overly deterministic.

  • Distinction between elite influence and working-class values in family structures.

Hochschild's Commodification of Family Life

  • In the 21st century, family relationships appear transactional and commodified.

  • Emotional alienation from work translates into families, causing internal struggles.

  • Relationships based on self-worth lead to ephemeral connections.

  • Criticized for exaggerating work’s role; many prioritize family over career.

    • Ulrich Beck noted shifts in male identity towards fatherhood rather than occupation due to employment instability.

Conclusion

  • Marxist theories provide critical insights into the intersection of family, capitalism, and social control.

  • Examining contrasting views, including feminist critiques and contemporary developments, promotes a deeper understanding of family dynamics.