- Louis Althusser (1971) argued the main function of education in a capitalist society is the reproduction of an efficient and obedient work force – the opposite to the ‘happy’ view of functionalists
- Althusser said the working-class are, taught in schools, to ‘accept’ their exploitation by the ruling-class
- this occurs through several ideological state apparatuses such as the family and the education system
- the education system is a particularly powerful ideological state apparatus and therefore the purpose (function) of school for Marxists is to:
- reinforces the ideology of capitalism
- that capitalism is just and reasonable (eg schools teaching pupils competition between each other is normal)
- education system trains future workers to become submissive to authority (schools teaches pupils to accept being told what to do as normal, that way, when your boss orders you what to do, it seems perfectly normal)
Continues…
Like this:
Like Loading...
Related
sociologytwynham.com 
This was really helpful in understanding the concepts. I feel so much better than I will not be failing my exams now. Thanks!
Glad you found it so useful. Many thanks for letting me know, too. 🙂