1. a) Ideology refers to a set of beliefs, values, and ideas that shape and guide individuals’ understanding of the world, society, and politics. It provides a framework for interpreting events, forming opinions, and making decisions within a particular social, cultural, or political context.

b) For instance, in the United States, the ideology of liberalism emphasizes individual rights, freedoms, and limited government intervention in the economy. Liberals advocate for policies such as healthcare reforms, environmental protections, and social welfare programs to address societal inequalities and promote equal opportunities.

c) Ideology influences political discourse, policy-making, and voter behavior. In American government classes, understanding ideologies like liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and libertarianism helps grasp diverse perspectives on governance, rights, and responsibilities. These ideologies often shape debates on issues like taxation, healthcare, immigration, and the role of government in regulating markets and ensuring social justice.

2. In US politics, the conservative and liberal ideologies diverge primarily in their views on government intervention, individual rights, and social policies. Conservatives prioritize limited government involvement in the economy, advocating for lower taxes, deregulation, and free-market principles to stimulate growth and innovation. They emphasize traditional values, often rooted in religious beliefs, and support policies like restrictions on abortion and immigration. On the other hand, liberals advocate for government intervention to address social inequalities, ensure access to healthcare and education, and protect civil rights and liberties. They prioritize progressive taxation, environmental regulations, and policies promoting diversity and inclusion. For example, conservatives may oppose government-funded healthcare programs, while liberals support initiatives like the Affordable Care Act to expand access to healthcare services. Ultimately, the dividing line between conservatism and liberalism lies in their contrasting approaches to governance, individual liberties, and societal values.

3. Althusser defines ideology as a system of ideas and beliefs that perpetuates the dominance of a ruling class by shaping individuals’ perceptions of reality. It operates through institutions like schools, media, and religion, which disseminate ideologies that serve the interests of the ruling class. Individuals internalize these ideologies, unaware of their role in perpetuating societal inequalities. For example, the American Dream promotes the belief that hard work leads to success, masking systemic barriers to social mobility. Althusser’s concept highlights how ideologies reinforce power dynamics and social hierarchies by shaping how people understand and interact with the world around them.