Marx's Theory Of Cultural Analysis

The concept of cultural production is very much discussed by many theorists under the context of capitalism.

According to Marx, the ideology and values of the ruling class is spread to the working class through what Engels called, the “false consciousness”. Marx posited that the control of the ruling class over the means of production includes not only the production of goods but also the production of ideas, values and beliefs. The working class suffers from “false consciousness” in that they are beckon to believe that the dominant ideology is in the best interest of the entire society. Through this phrase of “false consciousness”, the realities of exploitation and domination are concealed and obscured, thus allowing the ideology and values

Adorno and Horkheimer elucidated the cultural industry in the capitalist society as a condition of enlightenment that has taken over the social life of human by rationality. (Horkheimer, Max, and Theodor W. Adorno, 1972) The concept of cultural industry is a main aspect of late capitalism in which it markets the production of culture that is in opposition to “authentic culture”. (Horkheimer, Max, and Theodor W. Adorno, 1972) Unlike the “authentic culture” which is not goal-oriented, culture industry is subjected to economic success and profit maximization (also, the main focus of capitalism). Cultural products are created to appease the capitalistic mass consumers’ increasing demands for entertainment. Adorno and Horkeimer posit that the phenomenon of the mass-produced culture in cultural industry serves as a purpose to ensure the continued passivity and obedience of the capitalist mass consumers. Thus, the culture industry results in a commodification of human conciseness in which it denies the imagination and expression of the individuals and undermines the power and critical rationality of the

With reference to Althusser’s concept of ISAs, since young, we are being socialized by the ISAs that “work-hard” is important as the old saying goes, “hard work is the key to success”. With the idea of meritocracy that merits are based on our ability and talent instead of class wealth and privileges, we are convinced to believe that by working hard, we are able to progress and succeed in life. This cultural value of “work-hard” is being propagated through all types of ISAs such as the family, school and