Posted on by Ashanti Ribot · 1 Comment

DB 3.1

  • Keeping in mind the material covered in this lesson, describe how you understand ideology in YOUR OWN WORDS. 

Ideology is a set of opinions or beliefs of a group or an individual. Using ideology is also an impact on what side the people want to be on in the government. The beliefs influence the way individuals think, act and view the world. Often ideology refers to a set of political beliefs or set of ideas that characterize a particular culture.

  • How do you understand the difference between conservative and liberal ideology in US politics? What seem to be the big differences, the dividing line? Give an example to back up your arguments.

As for political views conservative prefer smaller government, less regulation, most services to be provided by the private sector in a free market and a literal interpretation of the constitution. On the liberal side, they prefer more regulation and services like free universal health care to be provided by the government to all citizens.  

For economic views conservatives feel the government should tax less and spend less. Cutting spending to balance the budget should be the priority. Higher income earners should have an incentive to invest. Charity is the responsibility of the people.As for Liberals feel the government should provide more services to the less fortunate ( like health care) and increase taxes if necessary. High- income earners should pay a larger percentage of their income as taxes.

For social views conservatives opposednto gay marriage, abortion and embryonic stem cell research. Support the right to bear arms, death penalty , and personal responsibility as an individual. On the other hand liberals feel as if gay couples to get equal rights like everyone else; abortion should be legal; support embryonic stem cell research. Support restrictions and regulations around the right to bear arms. 

  •  How do you understand Althusser’s definition of ideology? Paraphrase it in your own words.

Ideology is based on a person’s opinions. A group of people who have the same opinion will stick together and may probably go against people who have a different opinion than them. That is how I understand it. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to different peoples’ opinions and their beliefs. You cannot suggest someone is wrong because they believe something you don’t. Ideology helps the government have structure.