1. As we learned thus far, the capitalist class consists of people who own wealth, as well as the means of production in American society. An important question in understanding how this class works is to ask: how does a capitalist remain wealthy? The answer to this question depends largely on understanding the diagram M-C-M’. So, let’s practice by explaining what happens in this diagram in our own words (but basing our ideas on Reading 5.1). Respond to the following question: Explain M-C-M’ to show how capitalists maintain and increase their wealth.

In the article the M-C-M’ diagram explains how capitalists build their wealth. It starts with M, which stands for money. Capitalists use this money to buy C, or commodities, like labor and materials. Then, workers put in their effort to create finished products from those materials. When these products are sold, capitalists end up with M’, which is more money than they started with. This extra money, known as surplus value, is really important because it allows capitalists to reinvest, pay their workers, and grow their businesses. So, the whole process of turning money into goods and then back into even more money shows how capitalists keep getting richer over time..

1.Two key concepts in this video are the means of production and labor. In your comment, explain how you understand the means of production and labor. Give an example of each.

In the video, when they mention the means of production, they’re talking about all the tools and resources necessary to create products. For example, in a clothing factory, this includes things like sewing machines, fabric, and the workspace where everything comes together. Labor, on the other hand, is the actual work that people put in to make those products. A perfect example would be the seamstresses who sew the clothes. They’re the ones taking the materials and turning them into items we can wear and that businesses can sell.

2. Another important concept in understanding social class is value. Based on the ideas presented in Video 5.1, what is value?  What give “value” to value, what makes something valuable?

Value, as discussed in the video, is about how much effort and work goes into making something. Something is considered valuable when it takes a lot of time, skill, and resources to produce. For example, a custom-made guitar is generally seen as more valuable than ones that are mass produced because it involves more detailed work and craftsmanship. The labor that goes into it makes it special and unique.

3.How are labor and value related? What’s the relationship/connection between the two?

Labor and value are closely connected. Usually, the more effort that goes into making something, the higher its value tends to be. This isn’t just about the price; it also includes the resources and skills used to create the product. Additionally, market demand plays a big role in the relationship as well. When a product is in high demand, it can raise the value of the labor that went into making it.

4. How do you understand the difference between labor and labor power? Hint: this is a key difference, give it your best shot based on what the video says about it, and your own ideas. We’ll clarify and develop it in our discussions, and in my video comments.

Labor is the actual work we do to create things, while labor power refers to our ability or capacity to do that work. Basically, when we talk about labor power, we’re looking at what we, as workers, can offer to employers in exchange for a paycheck.

5.Surplus Value: what is it? Why is it important to know about, in our study of social classes? Think about an example of surplus value?

Surplus value is basically the difference between what workers are paid and the value of what they produce. So, for example, if a factory worker earns $15 an hour but makes products worth $30 an hour, that extra $15 is the surplus value, which goes to the business owner. Understanding surplus value is really important when we talk about social classes because it highlights how workers help generate profits but often don’t see the full benefits of their labor.

1.What is the distinction that Reading 4.3 makes between owners and employees? Give an example of each

In the reading Michael Parenti points out that owners have control over production and benefit financially from it, while employees earn wages by selling their labor and have less power. For example, the owner of a local restaurant is an owner, while a server who takes orders and serves food is an employee.

2.How do you understand the quote by Adam Smith on pg. 28? What is it saying about labor?

Adam Smith’s quote emphasizes how important labor is for creating wealth. It suggests that without labor, we wouldn’t be able to produce goods and services, which shows how essential labor is for economic growth.

3.What are your thoughts on the main argument of Reading 4.4 that class is NOT an identity?

in the reading Paul argues that we shouldn’t think of class as just a label that we stick on ourselves. Instead, class is shaped by the economic relationships we’re part of. This perspective helps us see that class can change over time and isn’t just about how we identify ourselves.

4.How do you understand the argument Reading 4.4. makes when stating that “class structures are built around a close form of dependency”? What is this close form of dependency, and can you think of an example?

When the reading says that class structures are built around a close form of dependency, it means that different classes rely on each other. For example, workers need jobs from the owning class, and owners depend on workers to produce and sell their goods. This relationship creates a balance of power, but it can also lead to inequalities that keep certain groups in control.

When I compared the articles, I noticed that both really highlight how social class shapes our identities and how we view ourselves and others. They both also talk about important factors like income and education. However, they approach the topic in different ways. In the article “What Determines How Americans Perceive Their Social Class?” they take a broader look at how social class is perceived across the whole U.S. using survey data. On the other hand, the subway reading focuses on New York City, showing how access to transportation impacts social inequalities. This specific focus makes it feel more relatable and highlights how our location can shape our experiences with social class.

1. The Repressive State Apparatus includes institutions like the police, military, courts, and prisons that use force or authority to keep society organized and controlled. Althusser calls it “repressive” because these institutions enforce rules and norms through direct methods like punishment and physical force. The word “repressive” shows how these institutions help maintain control and prevent challenges to the current system. For example, during a protest, the police work to make sure things don’t get too chaotic. If necessary, they might use force to manage the crowd or arrest people breaking the law. This approach helps maintain social order by directly addressing any problems or disruptions

2. Ideological State Apparatuses are places like schools, media outlets, and religious institutions that help shape our beliefs and values without using force. They work by influencing how we think and feel about the world around us. Instead of using physical power, these institutions teach us what’s important and guide our understanding of society through things like education and media. For example, schools are a great example of this. They don’t just teach us subjects like math and science, they also help us learn about important social values. Schools often stress the importance of being punctual, working hard, and following rules, which are all values that fit into the larger framework of how society operates. So, these institutions play a key role in reinforcing the ideas and norms that support the way things are organized in our world.

3. The main difference between Repressive State Apparatuses and Ideological State Apparatuses is how they keep society under control. Repressive State Apparatuses use direct methods like force and authority to manage problems right away. For example, the police or military step in during a crisis and use their power to handle the situation. On the other hand, Ideological State Apparatuses work in a more subtle way. They influence how we think and feel about the world through things like schools, media, and religious organizations. Instead of using force, they shape our values and beliefs over time. For instance, schools not only teach subjects like math but also important social values such as working hard and following rules. So, while Repressive State Apparatuses deals with immediate problems and maintain order through direct actions, Ideological State Apparatuses focuses on shaping our long term beliefs and attitudes.

4. In many schools, there’s a strong emphasis on doing well on tests, earning good grades, and winning awards. Students are often told that their success is mainly about how hard they work and compete against others. The main idea is that personal effort and impressive achievements are the keys to succeeding in life. (Ideological State Apparatuses)

1. A) Ideology is basically a set of beliefs and values that influences how we see the world and understand social and political issues. It helps us make sense of how societies should be organized and how people should interact with each other and the government. Our ideology affects our opinions on things like politics, economics, and social norms, guiding the choices we make and how we act.

B) For example, think about someone who feels that the government should step in to help reduce social inequalities and provide important services. This person is likely to have a progressive or liberal viewpoint. They might support things like universal healthcare and higher taxes on the wealthy because they believe these actions are essential for creating a fairer society and improving everyone’s quality of life.

C) Ideology is like the lens through which we view and make sense of our society. It influences not just how we see current events but also how we think about future changes and policies. For example, if we have a progressive mindset, we might advocate for social justice, environmental protection, and universal healthcare, believing these are key to creating a fairer and more equal society. On the other hand, if we lean towards a conservative outlook, we might focus on personal freedom, upholding traditional values, and making the economy more efficient, seeing these as essential for a stable and successful society. Essentially, our ideology helps us understand the world and guides how we want to shape it according to our values.

2. The main difference between conservative and liberal ideologies is how each side views the government’s role and their approach to social issues. Conservatives generally want a smaller government that doesn’t interfere much with the economy. They believe in personal responsibility and think that a free market with fewer regulations helps businesses grow and encourages innovation. For example, conservatives might support lower taxes and fewer rules, believing that these changes will help the economy and create more opportunities. Liberals, on the other hand, often think the government should be more involved in addressing social problems and providing services. They might support higher taxes on the wealthy and more regulations to promote fairness and protect people. For instance, liberals might back universal healthcare and stricter environmental rules, believing these are important for making society fairer and helping those in need. A clear example of this difference can be seen in the healthcare debate. Conservatives might favor a system with private insurance and market competition, while liberals are more likely to support government funded options like Medicare for all, to ensure everyone has access to healthcare regardless of their income. According to Althusser, ideology is a set of ideas that helps maintain the current system by shaping how we see and react to the world. He argued that institutions like schools, media, and religious groups help spread these ideas and keep the existing social order in place. For instance, in political speeches and campaigns, there’s often a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and self reliance. Politicians frequently promote these ideas, suggesting that success in life and the economy depends solely on individual effort rather than systemic support. This approach keeps us focused on personal achievements and distracts us from considering broader, systemic issues. Essentially, it helps maintain the current economic and social system by directing our attention towards personal success.