Marxism in International Relations: An Overview of Gramscianism and Critical Theory, Apuntes de Relaciones Internacionales

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HISTORY AND THEORY OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

4. Marxism (II):

Gramscianism and Critical Theory

Dr. Javier Morales [email protected]

Contents 4.4. Gramscianism 4.5. Critical Theory

4.4. Gramscianism

• Importance of ideas
  • Traditional Marxism sees ideas as just a “superstructure” created by the “base” (economic relations, which are the main factor)
  • But this underestimates the influence of “bourgeois myths” in the socialization of individuals: - Example: meritocracy (individual effort to improve your own situation), instead of collective rights
  • Most people assume the (capitalist) hegemonic ideas: the socially aceptable “common sense”… without thinking about alternatives or other “posible worlds”
  • The hegemony of the ruling class is reproduced in social institutions and practices, which sustain the existing distribution of power
  • Need to undermine hegemonic views by spreading alternative ideas  cultural debate as a political struggle

4.5. Critical Theory

• The Frankfurt School:
  • German intellectuals exiled to the US after Hitler came to power.
  • The dominant capitalist ideology has been very effective in controlling the working class.
  • Theodor ADORNO: It is very difficult to liberate ourselves from opressive social ideas and norms.
  • Herbert MARCUSE: Capitalism uses repression to create a highly conformist society

• Slavoj ŽIŽEK :
  • Slovenian Marxist philosopher
  • Studies the role of ideology in capitalist societies (culture, films…)
  • The Pervert’s Guide to Ideology (documentary) http://vimeo.com/

End of Lesson 4 – part II Questions? [email protected]