Ideology: further reading and tasks

MM52: 

Page 34: The World Of Mockingjay: Ideology, Dystopia And Propaganda

What view of capitalist ideology is presented in the Hunger Games films?
The general view of capitalist ideology in the Hunger Games films is that the society is being controlled by those with more power and authority. Maxist's theory of representation and meditation displays how the less wealthy are under control by the 'peacekeepers' and anyone that does wrong will be punished. This concept alone can be related to real life as in today's society we as humans have to follow the law and anyone that breaks it will go to prison or be harshly sentenced. There is a clear juxtaposition between the fictional world in the Hunger Games films and the real world. Furthermore when selected people from all districts are send to play the games, they have to learn to survive by killing others, finding food and shelter which can be once again related to real life when people are essentially send to prison 'to survive'. Another capitalist ideology is that everyone is under the influence of one person in the films: President Snow, he strives to create the most brutal games possible and make people suffer. This is a sign of power and can be applicable to country leaders and their use of Weapons.
Maxist's theory states that people will eventually always find a way to rebel and to resist power through ways such as voting or campaigning through a political system and this ideology is shown throughout the film where all the districts do whatever they can to gain piece. 
What do the Hunger Games films suggest about the power of the media to shape and influence ideological beliefs?
The Hunger Games films main suggestion of power in the media is the idea of broadcasting the games to people in the districts. President Snow wants everyone in society to fear him and the world they live in. They do this so less people question his authority and anyone who does will be killed. In addition to this, the media broadcasts messages and lets people in society know that if they threat the Capitol then they have a nuclear weapon and can use it against the people. This has a heavy influence on normal people and therefore they will follow those who say it. The media is generally a negative influence throughout all the films even when it shows the interview between Katniss and Peta because it was staged to present the fake reality of what they were about to do so we also see the manipulation done by the media.


Page 48: They Live - Understanding Ideology

What are the four accepted ideological beliefs in western societies highlighted by the article?

• People should put their families first.
• People should work hard for their money.
• Women should behave in feminine ways, and look after their appearance.

What does Gramsci's theory of hegemony suggest about power and ideology in society?
Gramsci's theory suggests that people who are already in power should remain that way and maintain it with the consent of people rather than the frequent use of force. He explains how power and ideology is created from ideas and structures and that people can dominate others through ideas instead of bringing fear upon them like in the example of Hunger Games films.

What does French theorist Louis Althusser suggest about ideology and consumerism?
Althusser's approach to ideology is that he believes that ideology is the way forward and that it is the best way to have dominance over people. He also believes that there are 2 forms of control:
1)Repressive State Control (RSA's) - Dominate people through common sense and social norms. E.g: Army, police, courts etc.
2)Ideological State Apparatuses (ISA's)

I don't agree with the idea of 'They Live' because I think that everyone deserves an opportunity to be of high authority instead of people who are already in charge and don't give audiences a chance to give an opinion.