1 – Repressive state apparatus – a repressive state apparatus is basically a system or institution that uses force, punishment, or fear to make people follow the rules. Example – the police breaking up a protest with tear gas. That’s repression because it physically stops people from acting against the system.

2 – Ideological state apparatus – an ideological state apparatus is softer – it tries to shape how we think and what we believe so that we follow rules without being forced. Example- schools teachings us to be “good citizens” respectful authority.

3 – difference between RSA and ISA – the big difference is how they control people. RSAs use force while ISAs use ideas. one is more physical, the other more mental.

4 – A commercial that shows a perfect happy family eating dinner together and smiling. This is an Ideological State Apparatus at work it promotes the idea that being a good family means buying the product and following that lifestyle.