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Read Item A below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Read Item A below and answer the question that follows. Item A According to Marx, capitalism is based on the ownership of the means of production by a wealthy mino... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read Item A below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Analyse two ways in which the education system might serve the needs of capitalism: First Way
Answer
The education system serves capitalism by reproducing the existing class structure. Schools often function to maintain the status quo by preparing students for predetermined societal roles. For example, working-class students may receive an education that emphasizes conformity and obedience, which are valuable traits in low-paid labor positions, rather than encouraging critical thinking or leadership skills.
This process of social reproduction ensures that the proletariat continues to accept their roles within the framework of capitalism without questioning it, thus mitigating any potential for uprising against the unequal system as highlighted by Marx.
Step 2
Analyse two ways in which the education system might serve the needs of capitalism: Second Way
Answer
Another way the education system supports capitalism is through the promotion of meritocracy. The belief that hard work and intelligence will lead to success is prevalent in educational discourse. This ideology serves to justify social inequalities by suggesting that those who do not succeed in the system simply did not work hard enough.
Consequently, the education system trains individuals to accept the capitalist ideology, thereby making it less likely for them to challenge the capitalist structure. Students are led to internalize their societal positions rather than questioning the socio-economic system that creates disparities, allowing capitalism to persist.