marxist view on media

Question 1

Althusser — Media & Ideology

Answer 1

AO1 (Knowledge):
Althusser argues that the media is part of the Ideological State Apparatus (ISA), which spreads ruling-class ideology to shape people’s beliefs and maintain capitalism.

AO2 (Application/Example):
For example, media outlets promote values like individualism and consumerism, encouraging people to accept social inequalities as natural.

AO3 (Evaluation):
Critics say Althusser’s theory is too deterministic, ignoring that audiences can interpret or resist media messages in different ways.

Question 2

Raymond Williams — Media & Ideology

Answer 2

AO1 (Knowledge):
Williams argued that media helps maintain ruling-class dominance by shaping culture and ideology but also allows for resistance through alternative meanings.

AO2 (Application/Example):
For example, TV shows or films may reinforce capitalist values but can also include subversive messages that challenge dominant ideas.

AO3 (Evaluation):
Critics say Williams’ view is optimistic about resistance, as ruling-class control over media production often limits how much opposition can actually be expressed.