What is dominant ideology

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What is Dominant Ideology 1. Thoughts, values, beliefs, and attitudes that belong to the majority of a social group. Learn more in: What Sparks Critical Learning?

Dominant ideology is typically an ideology of a dominant social bloc composed of classes and sub-groups whose interests are not always the same and the agreements and separations reflect on the ideology as are. Find more terms and definitions using our Dictionary Search. Dominant Ideology appears in:. Search inside this book for more research materials.

Recommend to a Librarian Recommend to a Colleague. In Marxist theory, the argument that the dominant classes in society exercise considerable control over the circulation of ideas see also manipulative model and that the working class tends to accept its subordination because the prevailing ideology functions to naturalize and legitimize the social inequalities of the status quo, for instance by promoting the value of hard work see also common sense; legitimation; naturalization; symbolic violence.

In capitalist societies this ideology thus functions to sustain social order and cohesion. Critics question the ideological power of the dominant classes and the degree of acceptance of such ideas by subordinate groups. They also argue that the thesis underestimates the role of factors such as economic constraints, legal and political coercion, and institutional socialization in maintaining social order.

Such factors may be so powerful that the dominant classes can afford a degree of pluralism and tolerance of political, social, and cultural deviance. Critics also note that the thesis overestimates the extent and importance of social integration and cohesion in modern societies and fails to account for persistent conflict: see also media hegemony. From: dominant ideology in A Dictionary of Media and Communication ».

Subjects: Media studies. View all related items in Oxford Reference ». Search for: 'dominant ideology' in Oxford Reference ». All Rights Reserved.