- What is a Repressive State Apparatus? Why does Althusser call it “repressive”? Can we explain his choice of words here. Give an example.
A Repressive State Apparatus is a collection of state controlled institutions that use force or threats of force to maintain order and enforce a law. Apparatus calls it “repressive” because it uses coercion and functions by violence to maintain social order. Some common examples of this in our society today is police, judiciary, and the prison system.
2. Let’s do the same for the Ideological State Apparatuses. What are they, how do they seem to work?
Ideological State Apparatus is institutions which spread dominant ideology of a society which shapes individual beliefs and ensures that they follow rules without having to use force. Examples of these institutions are schools, churches, the media, and even family.
3. Important: this question will appear on our exam: How are the Repressive and Ideological State Apparatuses different from each other? What is the difference between the two?
The difference between Repressive and Ideological State Apparatus is the approach the use to control individuals. The repressive state apparatus uses forces or threats to implement fear into individuals so they can maintain order. While Ideological State Apparatus ideologically control individuals without force or threats.
4. Post an example of ideology. This could be a piece of writing, an image, video, pdf document, visual art, or music, clip from a movie.
This is a political cartoon, illustrating Ideological State Apparatus.
