(a) Ideology. The systematic belief system guiding functioning societies to direct orientation along lines of the government-priority, economy-priorities, and social structures, which become the determinants of people’s involvement in making decisions on particular issues ; the kind of justice that a person requires and determination regarding the form of government as well.

(b) Example: Different types of economic systems comprise conflicting ideologies. The value and belief systems that comprise capitalism are ingrained especially in the ideals of private ownership and market competition, while in the case of socialism, it recognizes and ameliorates inequality that is inherent in economic opportunity through regulation toward social welfare.

(c) Further Explanation: There are ideologies that permeate institutions like education, media, and politics, which are really just meant to reinforce power structures. Most people accept dominant ideologies unquestioningly without ever getting around to asking where they come from or what could be their problematic effects. Say, “Work hard and you will see what you want” is, of course, one, but a very large part of this unargued tradition amidst great economic disparities because of systemic reasons.

2. Differences Between Conservative and Liberal Ideology
   The part where government has different roles in society is, for the most part, the following:

Conservatives consider that personal accountability, free markets, and minimal government interference exist in all quant y as regards these things. Government regulation would stifle economic growth.

Liberals encourage government action to provide welfare programs, social justice, and environmental regulation; they view regulation as a means to promote equity.

Example: Laws governing minimum wage.

Liberals make a claim on higher wages to retain quality.
For conservatives, more wages spoil the business environment and destroy jobs.

3. Althusser’s Definition of Ideology:
   He says that ideology is a set of ideas in particular instituted modes (education, media, and religion) that construct, in people, the distortions about how the world works, but even so almost never, overtly, mimic the foundations of the power structure.

Example: School education instills authority respecting behavior. This forms the foundation upon which society continues normalizing the power dynamics that are imposed upon it. Media thereon keep selling and uninhibitedly raise awareness about consumer behavior.

1)

Ideology refers to a set of beliefs, values, and ideas that shape the way individuals or groups perceive and understand the world. It influences political, social, and economic perspectives and often guides behavior and decision-making. Ideologies can comprise of a wide range of viewpoints, from political systems like democracy and socialism to social beliefs about equality and justice. They provide a structure for understanding complex issues and can unite or divide people based on shared or differing principles.
An example of ideology is democracy, which values freedom, equality, and the right to vote, guiding how societies govern themselves and interact with their citizens.
Ideology is a framework of beliefs and values that influences how people understand and interact with the world. It shapes political systems, like capitalism or socialism, and social movements, like feminism, guiding behavior and policies. By understanding ideology, we can better grasp the motivations behind actions and decisions in society.

2)
In US politics, conservatives focus on tradition, limited government, and individual responsibility, often advocating for lower taxes and free-market solutions. Liberals prioritize social equality and government intervention to address issues, supporting higher taxes on the wealthy and expanded social services. A big difference is their view on government roles; for instance, conservatives might oppose government-run healthcare, while liberals support it to ensure access for everyone.

3)
Althusser defines ideology as a set of beliefs and values that shape how individuals perceive and interact with the world, often without them being consciously aware of it. He argues that ideology operates through institutions like schools, churches, and media to maintain the status quo and reinforce existing power structures. For example, in a capitalist society, the education system might promote the idea that success comes from hard work and individual effort. This belief supports the existing economic system by encouraging people to accept their social positions and strive within the given framework, rather than questioning or challenging the system itself.

1. a) What is ideology? I believe ideology is a set of beliefs and values that people use to perceive the world. Ideology is a system that people can use to describe their political and social stances. Several factors such as parental involvement, schooling and society play roles into shaping one’s ideology.

1. b) Example illustrating ideology: An example of illustrating ideology can be the way people view the involvement of government in the society. People delving towards conservative ideology believe the government should not intervene in the market economy as it limits freedom whereas people with liberal ideology believe in state-owned enterprises which provide equal and fair opportunities to the labor market.

1. c) Understanding ideology: Ideology goes beyond just a set of ideas; it’s a notion that can modify societies and even cultures. It provides a framework for how people view the world around them, often influencing political policies and personal beliefs. People may not always be conscious of their ideologies, as they are often deeply embedded in the culture, institutions, and traditions they grow up in. Ideology can justify social systems, like capitalism or socialism, and play a crucial role in maintaining the status quo or advocating for change. It also serves to unite people under a common cause or belief system, but it can sometimes lead to division when competing ideologies clash.

2. The difference between conservative and liberal ideology in U.S. politics: U.S. conservatism focuses on individual freedoms with a lower involvement of government in society and right wing measures in the economy. Conservatives generally support a limited role of government, preferring individual responsibility, traditional values and an economy based on free enterprise. They generally speak, however, by referring to the necessity of order in society, of individual liberties, and of security of the State. Conservatives, for instance, may oppose extensive government programs and support tax cuts to incentivize economic growth. Conservatives prefer less government intervention in economy, while liberals call for an active government involvement. Liberals tend to support social safety net programs, government policies to protect the environment, and government policies for social justice and equality. This, for example, may manifest as support for universal healthcare or policies aimed at decreasing economic inequality. Somewhere between the generality of the two ideologies is the abstract idea of authority in the role of government and right of the individual. Liberals align with ideas stressing social equality and community responsibility, whereas conservatives cling to the notion of personal freedom and limited government action.

3. Althusser’s definition of ideology: According to Althusser, ideology functions as a mechanism by which a system of beliefs and practices structures the way in which individuals perceive the world and the place they occupy within it. But ideology is not just a system of ideas; it also operates as a “material practice” that shapes how people live, think and behave. It is not just abstract beliefs that serve as ideology, but also how people are “interpellated” or “hailed” into social roles through institutions and media and other social forces. Less abstractly, ideology serves its believers as a lens through which they view not only themselves but their peers as well. For instance, they may have been raised in a culture that valued individual success, internalizing the belief that one’s future rests largely on one’s own effort. This belief acts as an ideological lens they use to define their life and success. While this ideology is not taught in a traditional sense, it is embedded within society, within the institutions like the family, the media, the schools, which teach an individual to see the world in a certain way.

1.  Ideology is like a set of beliefs or ideas that people use to make sense of the world and decide how society should be run. It includes things like political and economic theories that influence how we think about government, laws, and social issues. For example, Liberals think the government should help people a lot, However, Conservatives believe that the government should stay out of people’s lives more often and let people take care of themselves. The excerpt “Democracy for the Few” by the author Michael Parenti helped me understand the differences in ideology between all the political parties because he goes into detail explaining them more specifically conservatives. For example, “Conservatives blame many of our troubles on what billionaire Steve Forbes called the“arrogance, insularity, the government-knows-best mentality” in Washington, DC.” This quote helped me understand that conservatives truly dislike a huge party having control over us. 

2. Conservatives believe in smaller governments and want them to stay out of people’s lives as much as possible therefore they just want more freedom. Liberals are the complete opposite and believe the government should definitely be bigger and more hands on therefore they believe in equality for all. An example that differentiates the two parts could be that liberals heavily believe in everyone having access to healthcare and conservatives heavily believe that taxes should be lower because they believe people should keep more of their own money instead of giving it away even if it’s back to the country. 

3. Althusser thought that ideology was like a set of ideas that shape how we see the world. These ideas aren’t just in our heads; they come from places like schools, churches, and the media. These places make certain ideas seem normal so that people accept them without thinking too much about it. So, ideology helps keep society running in a certain way. 

1. I believe Ideology to be a set of beliefs, judgements, and principles that navigate how we the people, perceive the world. Different ideologies such as economic, social, and political (to name a few) can influence how we make decisions and what deem to morally right or wrong. The different types of ideologies can also change the structure of society. For example, conservative embrace a free market and favor less government spending because that in turn transpires to lower taxes. On the other hand, liberals support government intervention and higher taxes, when it benefits marginalized groups. Political socializations like family, social groups, economic self interest, gender gap, education, and political conditions are how we learn about values like liberty and equality. This is also how we align ourselves with a conservative or liberal perspective.
2. I understand the understand the difference between conservative and liberal ideology in US politics is by assessing the values that each group practices. Liberals are more progressive with policies that focus on equality, government intervention, and social transformation. For example, liberals oppose government intervention in individuals personal life. They favor things like marijuana legalization or pro-choice advocacy, while conservative oppose it. Conservatives embrace individual liberties, minimal government regulation, and upholding conventional values. For example, conservatives support minimal government involvement, a strong military defense, advocacy for pro-life, and contraceptive oppression. The dividing line amongst conservatives and liberals seems to be liberty and equality. I define liberty to be independence without any restrictions. Having the freedom to speak, think, and act upon one’s own volition. I also define equality to be fairness without discrimination for all individuals or groups. Regardless or race, sex, age, or socioeconomic status.
3.  I understands Althusser’s definition of ideology to be a structure of thoughts and enactments that define how people view the world and their place in it. It is also is a real life depiction that is experienced in our organizations and institutions like media outlets, schools, and churches. For example, Althusser’s ideology can be seen in the media. Consumer advertisements in the media gives off the idea that people have a “choice” is choosing between products or goods that are indistinguishable. In which, people tend to indoctrinate themselves with these ideals that conform to a capitalistic ideology or capitalistic norms.

1) In my view , Ideology refers to a set of beliefs, values, and ideas that shape the way individuals and groups perceive the world and their place in it. As a Pakistani woman living in New York, I’ve experienced firsthand how different ideologies can influence one’s identity and interactions. In Pakistan, cultural and religious ideologies play a significant role in shaping societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding gender roles. Moving to New York exposed me to a more diverse and liberal set of ideologies, where individualism and personal freedom are highly valued. This contrast has allowed me to critically evaluate and blend these differing perspectives, creating a unique worldview that respects my heritage while embracing the opportunities and freedoms of my new environment.

2) Based off my understanding, conservative and liberal ideologies in US politics differ mainly in their approach to change and government involvement. Conservatives generally prefer to keep things the way they are or return to traditional values, emphasizing limited government and personal responsibility. They believe in a free-market economy with less regulation. Liberals, on the other hand, are more open to change and reform, advocating for a more active government role in addressing social inequalities and providing public services. For example, when it comes to healthcare, conservatives often support private healthcare systems and oppose government-run programs, while liberals push for expanding government healthcare like Medicare to ensure everyone has access to medical care.

3) Althusser’s concept of ideology goes beyond just a collection of ideas or beliefs , it’s a comprehensive system that influences how people perceive themselves and their role in society. According to Althusser, ideology operates through everyday practices and institutions like schools, media, and family, which continuously reinforce the prevailing social order. This system helps individuals make sense of and accept the world as it is, even if it’s not in their best interests. Ideology plays a crucial role in maintaining power structures by shaping people’s identities and making them unknowingly participate in their own subordination. This often happens without their awareness. Althusser describes this process as “interpellation,” where individuals are called upon by ideology and come to recognize their place within the societal framework. Essentially, people internalize social norms and expectations, which makes them complicit in sustaining the existing power dynamics. This subtle yet powerful influence of ideology ensures that the dominant social order remains intact by embedding itself deeply into the fabric of everyday life.

1. What is ideology?

Ideology is a combination of ideas that change the way we see the world. It gives us an understanding of politics, society, and culture, giving us a strong perspective and actions. Ideologies are present everywhere, in politics, religion, and in a regular day. They can feel natural because they feel extremely invested in society and a lot of times not being motivated until challenged.

2. Conservative vs. Liberal Ideologies in US Politics

Conservatives and liberals have different views on government and social issues. Conservatives like a smaller type of government, unique values, and a market price, but as for liberals, they believe in a government that is active and gives equality and social welfare. The thing that can be worrying is the government’s involvement; liberals believe that as long as they have the government, their are more inequalities.

3. Althusser’s Definition of Ideology

Louis Althusser argued that ideology has an important role in changing our perspective of reality, primarily through different ways such as schools, media, and religion. It changes and affects the beliefs and actions, often without us knowing the effects. Althusser suggested that ideology “calls” or “interpellates” individuals, making them believe they are making free choices about what they believe, even though these beliefs are extremely influenced by other social and impactful factors.

What is Ideology?

Ideology is essentially a collection of ideas, values, and beliefs that individuals or groups use to interpret the world around them. It’s a framework for understanding how society should function and what role people play in it. It can shape personal opinions, political beliefs, economic practices, and social norms, often influencing behavior and decision-making. Ideology often goes beyond individual preferences and become a collective, almost unconscious way of thinking that drives how we engage with issues of justice, power, and equality. People might not even realize that they’re influenced by ideology, because it’s so embedded in everyday life through schools, media, family, and culture. We can think of ideology as a lens or filter through which we perceive reality, and depending on which ideological perspective we adopt, we might see the same issue in entirely different ways. 

Ex: 

An example of ideology could be seen in the way different political groups view wealth distribution. A person who aligns with a capitalist ideology might believe that wealth should be earned through personal effort and that the market will naturally reward those who work the hardest. They may argue that anyone who works hard enough can achieve financial success. On the other hand, someone who supports socialist ideology might argue that wealth should be more equally distributed because the market doesn’t always reward hard work and tends to favor those with privilege. The ideological divide explains why some people believe in policies that emphasize individual responsibility and free markets, while others believe the government should intervene to correct the inequalities of capitalism. Both are deeply ideological views on economics and fairness.

Ex: 

Ideology plays a huge role in shaping not only individual actions but also collective social movements and even entire political systems. For example, the ideology behind the civil rights movement in the U.S. was rooted in a belief in equality and justice for all people, regardless of race. Activists like Martin Luther King Jr. were influenced by ideologies. Similarly, in a more modern context, movements like Black Lives Matter reflect how ideologies around race and justice continue to evolve. The way we view societal issues is often a product of the dominant ideology within a given context, whether that’s capitalism, socialism, conservativism, or liberalism. These ideas can be deeply ingrained, influencing how we view social problems, what solutions we advocate for, and even who we trust as authority figures. 

Conservative vs. Liberal Ideology in U.S. Politics

The difference between conservative and liberal ideologies in U.S. politics primarily lies in their views on the role of government, economic systems, and social values. At the most basic level, conservatives tend to advocate for limited government intervention, a free-market economy, and individual responsibility, while liberals generally support a more active government role in addressing social inequalities and providing public services, these differences often manifest in policies regarding healthcare, taxation, labor, rights, and the environment. 

Big Differences: 

Conservatives are generally more focused on maintaining tradition and emphasizing individual liberty. They believe that people should be free to pursue their own interests without interference from the government. Key conservative values include personal responsibility, self-reliance, and economic freedom. They tend to argue that the government should focus on maintaining law and order, defending national interests, and ensuring that the free market operates without excessive regulation. When conservatives talk about individual rights, they typically refer to things like property rights, the ability to own businesses, and the freedom to pursue wealth. For example, they often oppose high taxes, arguing that they stifle economic growth and discourage entrepreneurship. Liberals, on the other hand, view government as a tool for promoting social equality and protecting vulnerable groups. They emphasize the need for regulation in areas like healthcare, the environment, and business practices to ensure that the interest of individuals are not overshadowed by corporate greed. Liberals support policies like universal healthcare, environmental protection laws, and welfare programs to reduce economic inequality. The core liberals value is the idea of social justice-ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has equal access to opportunities and resources. For example, liberals may advocate for progressive taxation, where wealthier individuals pay a higher percentage of their income to fund social services for the less fortunate. 

A concrete example of the ideological divide can be seen in the debate over healthcare. Conservatives typically argue that healthcare should be left to the private sector and that the government should not be involved in providing health insurance. They believe that competition in the private market will drive down costs and improve quality. Liberals, however, often argue that healthcare is a fundamental right, and that government should play a role in ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable care. They are more likely to support a single-payer healthcare system or policies like the Affordable Care Act, which aim to reduce the number of uninsured people and make healthcare more accessible to lower-income individuals. The key dividing line is in their views on the role of government. Conservatives want government to stay out of economic affairs as much as possible, focusing instead on individual freedoms and the free market. While liberals, believe that government should step in to protect the public interest, particularly when it comes to issues of inequality, social welfare, and the environment. 

Althusser’s Definition of Ideology

Louis Althusser, a French philosopher, defined ideology as a system of ideas and beliefs that operates to sustain and justify the power structures in society. According to Althusser, ideology isn’t just something individuals hold in their minds-it’s something that is deeply embedded in the institutions and practices of society. It shapes how we see the world and our place within it, without us necessarily being aware of its influence. He famously said that “ideology represents the imaginary relationship of individuals to their real conditioned of existence.” This means that ideology shapes the way we think about our lives and society, often masking the true power dynamics at play. In my own words, Althusser’s definition of ideology suggests that it’s not just a collection of beliefs that people actively choose to follow. Rather, it’s a system of ideas that is ingrained in our daily lives through insititutions like schools, the media, the workplace, and even family. These institutions constantly reinforce these ideas, making them feel like “common sense” or even “natural.” Ideology, then, operates to keep people in line with the existing social and economic structures. For example, capitalist ideology often promotes the idea that success is solely the result of individual hard work, which distracts from the systemic barriers that may prevent some people from achieving success. 

Ex:

Althusser’s theory in action can be seen in the way societal views poverty. Capitalist societies often ideologically frame poverty as a result of personal failure-if people are poor, it’s because they didn’t work hard enough or didn’t make the right choices. This perspective overlooks the structural factors that contribute to poverty, such as lack of access to quality education, racial discrimination, or economic policies that benefit the wealthy. According to Althusser, this kind of thinking is shaped by the ideology of capitalism, which maintain s the status quo by encouraging people to blame themselves for their circumstances, rather than questioning the system that perpetuates inequality. Althusser also points out that ideology is reinforced by what he calls “Ideological State Apparatuses” (ISAs), which are institutions that propagate dominant ideologies, like schools, the media, and religious organizations. The institutions help teach us what is “normal” or “acceptable,” often without us questioning it. In this way, ideology operates at a subconscious level, shaping our worldview and our behavior in way that align with the interests of those in power. 

In essence, Althusser’s view of ideology goes beyond personal beliefs or opinions-it is a system that is deeply embedded in society and perpetuated through institutions that shape our understanding of the world, often to the benefit of the powerful.