Neo Marxism

Question 1

Neo Marxist Perspective

Answer 1

See traditional ideas of marxism as outdated

Reject the idea that inequality is based on the simple concept of economic determinism (an individual’s relationship with the economy shapes every aspect of social life)

Inequality is far more complex than an individuals relationship to the means of production

Question 2

Antonio Gramsci
Control of Economy & Ideas

Answer 2

Bourgeoisie control the economy and the creation of ideas (infrastructure and superstructure)

Majority of people agree to these ideas without question

Education system ensures the poor accept inequality and the superior position of the bourgeoisie

Question 3

Nicos Poulantzas
Capitalism Consent to Rule & Class Consciousness

Answer 3

Capitalism didn’t deliberately try and control society

It obtained consent from workers, in order to control and govern some aspects of life

By giving working people some of their demands, workers believe capitalism is on their side, preventing class consciousness

Question 4

Ralph Miliband
Government Controlled by Capitalist & Inequality

Answer 4

State controls peoples lives under capitalism and state is run by capitalists

Protection of capitalism and inequality is essential

Meritocracy and equality of opportunity are a myth - society is ruled by those from hugely wealthy backgrounds

Question 5

Erik Olin-Wright
Increasing Diversity of Social Classes

Answer 5

Social classes aren’t polarising as Marx predicted

Social classes are increasing in number and form - social classes are now diverse

Middle classes are exploited by capitalism, but also exploit working classes

Those who rise up the capitalism system have little interest in changing the system