1- Althusser uses the word “repressive” because the RSA defines it through force rather than persuasion. Such as schools, churches, media, and families, which shape ideology and beliefs through cultural and ideological influence, the RSA works through direct coercion and punishment. A clear example of an RSA is the police force cracking down on protest movements. For instance, when workers organize a protest for unfair laws, the police might use tear gas, or violence to break up the demonstrations. His forceful intervention ensures the continuation of the existing economic and political order.
2-Althusser calls it “ideological” because it works through beliefs and values rather than brute force. People internalize the ruling ideology, often without realizing it, and thus willingly participate in their subjugation. They work through persuasion and internalization, meaning that people come to accept their social roles and inequalities as normal. For example, The media often reinforces dominant ideologies by shaping public opinion, defining what is normal or acceptable, and marginalizing alternative perspectives Families often teach traditional gender roles, obedience, and respect, reinforcing existing power structures.
3-The Repressive operates through force, using institutions like the police, military, prisons, and courts to enforce obedience. It functions through direct, physical repression, ensuring that those who challenge the existing power structure face consequences such as arrest, surveillance, or violence. The Ideological State Apparatuses, on the other hand, maintains control through ideology and persuasion, using institutions like schools, media, religion, and family to shape people’s beliefs and values.
The Ideological State Apparatuses condition individuals to conform willingly, making repression less necessary, while Repressive intervenes when ideological control fails, using punishment to maintain order. For example, schools teach obedience and individual responsibility, leading people to believe that poverty results from laziness. However, if students protest unfair policies, the police might suppress their dissent. This combination of ideological manipulation and physical repression ensures that power remains in the hands of the ruling elite.
4- The ads, often shown through television, social media, and magazines, promote the idea that beauty equals thinness, youth, and perfection, influencing people to conform to these unrealistic standards. Over time, individuals internalize these ideas and may feel pressure to look a certain way, buy certain products, or change their appearance to fit the dominant ideology of beauty.
