Comprehension

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on it:

Althusser argues that no class can hold power for any length of time simply by the use of force. Ideological control provides a far more effective means of maintaining class rule. If members of the subject class accept their position as normal, natural and inevitable, and fail to realize the true nature of their situation, then they will be unlikely to challenge ruling class dominance. Physical force is an inefficient means of control compared to winning over hearts and minds. The maintenance of class rule largely depends on the reproduction of ruling class ideology. Thus Althusser argues that ‘the reproduction of labour power requires not only a reproduction of its skills, but also, at the same time a reproduction of its submission to the ruling ideology’. This submission is reproduced by a number of ‘Ideological State Apparatuses’ which include the mass media, the law, religion and education. Ideological State Apparatuses transmit ruling class ideology thereby creating false class consciousness which largely maintains the subject class in its subordinate position. In pre-capitalist society, Althusser sees the church as the dominant ideological state apparatus. In capitalist society it has largely been replaced by the educational system.

For the longest possible duration to hold power, the most efficient is : 

  1. Media control
  2. Economic control 
  3. Religious control
  4. Ideological control

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Religious control

Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is - Religious control

Key Points

  • Religious control
    • Influence over beliefs:
      • Religious institutions can shape individual and collective beliefs, morals, and values, leading to significant influence over a population.
    • Long-term loyalty:
      • Religious control often results in long-term loyalty and adherence, as religious teachings and practices are deeply ingrained from a young age.
    • Social cohesion:
      • Religion can create a strong sense of community and social cohesion, which can be leveraged to maintain control over a group.

Additional Information

  • Economic control
    • Involves controlling the economic resources and means of production, which can influence power dynamics.
    • While effective, it may not be as enduring as religious control since economic conditions can change rapidly.
  • Media control
    • Relies on controlling information and public opinion through media channels.
    • Effective for short-term influence but can be circumvented with alternative information sources.
  • Ideological control
    • Involves promoting a particular ideology to shape perceptions and behaviors.
    • Similar to religious control but often lacks the deep-rooted, long-term commitment seen in religious adherence.
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