Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 2

The Marxist view of socialisation posits that it serves to perpetuate the values and beliefs of the dominant class, essentially ensuring the reproduction of class structures. According to this perspective, agencies of socialisation—such as family, education, and the media—work collaboratively to instill ideologies that benefit the ruling class while subduing the working class.

The Role of Socialisation in Promoting Dominant Ideologies

Marxists argue that socialisation is a critical mechanism through which the ruling class maintains its power. For instance, the education system is often cited as a primary agent that transmits not only knowledge but also societal norms that uphold capitalism. This is evident in the hidden curriculum, which teaches conformity, competition, and compliance—values that align with the interests of the dominant class and prepare individuals for their roles within the capitalist system.

Counter-Arguments from Other Sociologists

Contrarily, other sociologists, such as functionalists, argue that socialisation plays a more integrative role, which benefits society as a whole. They argue that socialisation fosters social cohesion and shared values that contribute to societal stability. For example, functionalists would assert that mutual understanding and cooperation among individuals ultimately aid in the functioning of society.

Critical Evaluation of the Marxist Perspective

While the Marxist interpretation provides valuable insight into the workings of power and class, it may overlook the nuances of individual agency. Interactionist theories suggest that individuals are not merely passive recipients of values; instead, they actively engage with and sometimes resist societal norms. The concept of the 'looking-glass self', proposed by Cooley, emphasizes how individuals develop their self-concept through interactions with others, shaping their identity beyond solely the imposed ideologies of the ruling class.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Marxist view highlights the manipulative aspects of socialisation toward maintaining class dominance, it is essential to consider the broader context, including the potential for socialisation to contribute to individual agency and social cohesion. A comprehensive evaluation recognizes the complexity of socialisation as a process that shapes not just the collective society but also individual identities.