marxist and functionalist explination of the education system

Question 1

Althusser (1971) came up with 2 aspects of the reproduction of an obedient labour force. what were they?

Answer 1

• the reproduction of the necessary technical skills.

* the reproduction of ruling class ideology.

Question 2

what does the term hegemony mean?

Answer 2

the dominance and acceptance In society of the ruling classes set of ideas.

Question 3

who suggests that ‘the main role of education in a capitalist society is the reproduction of an obedient workforce.’

Answer 3

Bowles and Gintis

Question 4

list a few criticisms of these approaches.

Answer 4

• there is a lack of detailed research done within schools.
• aspects of the formal curriculum are ignored.
• employers complain that schools do not create an obedient work force.

Question 5

what are the similarities between the functionalist and Marxist approach?

Answer 5

• both are large scale theories that see a link between education and the social system.
• both see education as being a way of serving the needs of the capitalist society.
• both see schools as legitimising social inequality.