MARXIST VIEW Flashcards
(25 cards)
where did Bowles and Giants carry out research in 1976?
USA.
what three key concepts does B and G’s work develop into?
- the myth of meritocracy.
- the correspondence principle.
- the hidden curriculum.
what does myth of meritocracy mean?
means the education system claims to be fair, offering everyone equal opportunities - but it isn’t.
what is the reality of the myth of meritocracy?
it reproduces class inequalities.
what does reproducing class inequalities mean?
w/c students learn to go through school without achieving very much + m/c learn how to become successful.
what is the correspondence principle?
the idea that the education system us similar to the world of work, students are being prepared to work while they are in school.
what does the correspondence principle mean for w/c children?
they are being prepared for their future roles in low-paid, low status employment.
what does the correspondence principle mean for m/c children?
encouraged to think of future jobs as owners of means production - high status and high paying jobs.
give one example of the correspondence principle working?
you have to wear uniform at work and school.
what is the hidden curriculum?
learning which is not directly taught in schools - eg. powerful messages about what is appropriate and what isn’t.
give 2 examples of the hidden curriculum?
- being encouraged to be obedient.
- accepting authority of teachers.
how do functionalists see the hidden curriculum?
they agree that schools transmit messages but see it in a positive way.
what does Althusser focus on?
the way the education system shapes the ideas of students so they think the education system is fair.
what does Althusser claim the education system is part of?
the ideological state apparatus.
what is the ideological state apparatus?
the way that certain institutions shape peoples ideas so that they do not seek to challenge capitalism.
why does he argue that people need to want the capitalist system to work?
because they cannot be forced to accept an unfair system.
Althusser saw education as a …?
key tool for capitalism.
why is education a key tool for capitalism?
it subtly teaches people to accept their place in society.
who does Bourdieu argue the education system advantages?
the middle class.
why does Bourdieu argue education system benefits m/c?
bc they can possess cultural capital.
what is cultural capital?
a particular set of tastes and interests often found among m/c people - which will often lead to financial rewards later in life.
give an example of Bourdieu’s theory?
listening to classical music at home will provide knowledge that helps in school.
why are w/c people at a disadvantage bc of cultural capital?
they are simply less aware of these experiences and therefore at a disadvantage.
critics - arguing that being working class is automatically - ?
a disadvantage, and leading to educational failure.
