1. What is a Repressive State Apparatus? Why does Althusser call it “repressive”? Give an example. A Repressive State Apparatus is a way the government controls people through force or threats. Althusser calls it “repressive” because it uses power to make people obey rules, often through punishment or violence. An example is the police, which enforces laws and can arrest or use force to control people.
  2. What are the Ideological State Apparatuses? How do they seem to work? Ideological State Apparatuses are ways that ideas and beliefs are spread to shape how people think and act. They work by influencing people’s values and beliefs rather than using force. Examples include schools, churches, and media. They teach us what is right or wrong and how we should behave in society.
  3. How are the Repressive and Ideological State Apparatuses different from each other? What is the difference between the two? The Repressive State Apparatuses use force and punishment to control people, while the Ideological State Apparatuses use ideas and beliefs to shape how people think and behave. The main difference is that Repressive State Apparatuses control through power and threats, whereas Ideological State Apparatuses influence through teaching and persuading.
  4. Post an example of ideology. Specify if this is an example of repressive or ideological apparatuses at work. A public service announcement that promotes healthy eating. This is an example of an Ideological State Apparatus at work because it aims to shape people’s beliefs and behaviors about health through education and persuasion, not through force.

One thought on “Kunsang Chodon – Discussion Board 3.2”

  1. Hi Kunsang, Your explanation of the Repressive State Apparatus (RSA) is clear, highlighting how the government uses force or threats to maintain control. Althusser calls it “repressive” because it involves direct power and punishment, and your example of the police effectively illustrates this.

    You also provide a solid understanding of Ideological State Apparatuses (ISA), explaining how they influence people’s beliefs and behaviors through institutions like schools, churches, and media. Instead of using force, they shape values and norms, which helps to control society in a more subtle way.

    The distinction you made between RSAs and ISAs is accurate, with RSAs relying on coercion and ISAs influencing people through ideas. Your example of a public service announcement promoting healthy eating is a great illustration of an ISA, as it aims to guide behavior through education rather than threats or punishment.

    Overall, your response is concise and well-structured, effectively summarizing Althusser’s concepts.

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