A Repressive State Apparatus (RSA) includes institutions like the police and military that maintain control through force. Althusser calls it “repressive” because it uses coercion to suppress dissent and uphold the ruling class’s power. For example, police enforcing laws and arresting protesters exemplifies this idea, as it helps maintain the existing social order.
Ideological State Apparatuses (ISAs) are institutions like schools, churches, media, and family that shape people’s beliefs and values to maintain the ruling class’s power. They work by subtly influencing how individuals think and behave, promoting ideologies that support the existing social order. For example, schools teach not just academic subjects but also social norms and values that reinforce the status quo, making people more likely to accept and perpetuate the current system.
Repressive State Apparatuses (RSAs) use force, like the police and military, to maintain control and suppress rebellion. Ideological State Apparatuses (ISAs), on the other hand, like schools and media, shape beliefs and values to support the status quo through ideology. Essentially, RSAs rely on coercion, while ISAs rely on persuasion.
An example of ideology is the ‘American Dream’, which promotes the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination. It’s reinforced by schools and media, shaping people’s aspirations in society.
