1. In my opinion, ideology is a set of values and beliefs that people believe and follow. This can include religion, politics, the economy, and much more. Ideology can act as the foundation of many things such as a home or country. I am a democrat and the decision to be one is due to growing up in a household with parents who have liberal views and opinions. Another example of ideology is Saudi Arabia’s laws being formed through the lens of Muslim ideology. Many of the country’s laws and punishments derive from the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
  2. The main difference is conservative and liberal ideology in U.S politics is their view of what America should look like. Conservative ideology is rooted in Christian values. People who align with conservative ideology believe that America should stick to many traditional (outdated) views and laws. Conservative ideology aligns closely to the core values of the Bible such as family and justice. Liberal ideology is rooted in freedom for all. People who align with liberal ideology believe that we should all be considered equal in America regardless of race, religion, or economic status.
  3. Louis Althusser’s definition of ideology is that it is a set of beliefs that are there to keep the public in line and keep the government/ruling class in power. Althusser developed two concepts, “Repressive State Apparatus” and the “Ideological State Apparatus”. The “Repressive State Apparatus” is how the ruling class maintains control and order. This can create the fear of disobeying any rules and not questioning authority. For example, this includes the police, military, and prison. The “Ideological State Apparatus” is how the public and their views are influenced. This shapes how people view the world around them. For example, this can include church, school, and the media you see/engage with on a daily basis.

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