Ideological and Represstive States of Apparatuses - a Louis Althusser Theory

Louis Althusser's academic essay, "Ideology and Ideological State Apparatuses" was a paper published, which further explored concepts initially presented by German Philosopher, Karl Marx. Marx's theory of Marxism was the stepping stone for which future philosophers based their academic theories upon. The theory of Marxism states that "Production is the reproduction of the state of production". This refers to the Capitalist Rule construct, where production stands for the labour forces, who must always continue to work, and earn a wage, so as to create a base layer by which social structure and societal classes can stand. Capitalism, in its core essence, represents a society in which those with money stand at the top of the social hierarchy. A capitalist society is always dictated by those who stand at the top. All those beneath are the ruling class, who work to maintain the balance and reproduction of this state. Louis Althusser's study works to build upon Marx's and other philosopher's theories, and he puts forth two of his own theories; the theory of Ideological State Apparatuses (ISA), and the theory of Repressive State Apparatuses (RSA). The theory of RSA speaks of the belief that a state mind – those in power, will enforce their will through means of physical and legitimate fear. A good example of the theory of RSA would come in the form of dictatorships, where the ruling class asserts its physical dominance over its citizens, so as to make them conform to the social structure. It also deals in the more physical side of a countries system, through means of law, and courts. In comparison, the theory of ISA speaks on a state's more subtle approach at enforcing its will upon the people. Unlike in a dictatorship, the ruling class must prove they have the right to rule, and create their hegemony. This is done through factors such as education, as well as conditions set within society. Rather than ruling through fear