Bourdieu and Althusser on Culture and Ideology Essay

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The concepts presented by the two authors, Bourdieu and Althusser, have many differences than commonalities. In this case, the two authors have used unique perspectives in their works. Althusser presents his argument on the premise of defining ideology, power and state apparatuses. On the contrary, Bourdieu presents his argument centred on culture. Nonetheless, despite the differences noted in the works of the two authors, some similarities can be pointed out.

Bourdieu (1984a) argues that cultural practices can only be effectively understood through the anthropological sense. Bourdieu asserts that the ideology of charisma look upon the taste in genuine culture as a natural gift, whereas scientific observations indicate that cultural needs result from education and the way one is raised. It has been established that culture and cultural aspects are closely related to education and social background of the individual.

It has further been indicated that the social background and educational level of individuals have a great bearing on the cultural practices. Bourdieu points out that the way in which culture is acquired thrives by way of using the cultural element (Bourdieu, 1984a). In this respect, the importance associated with the manner in which the cultural elements are viewed can only be understood only when it is seen. Bourdieu also asserts that culture has its titles of nobility which is received from the education system.

As much as there are differences between the two authors, there is a similarity in the sense that the two authors have provided definitions of particular terminologies. Althusser presents the definitions of ideology, state apparatuses and power. On the other hand, Bourdieu has presented definitions on various aspects related to culture (Bourdieu, 1984b).

In conclusion, it can be observed that the writers Bourdieu and Althusser have presented distinct readings depicting unique characteristics. Nonetheless, the two readings have similarity in the sense that they have offered definitions on various aspects.

Bibliography

Althusser, L, 1994, Ideology and Ideological State Apparatuses.

Bourdieu, P, 1984(a), “Introduction,” Distinction: a social critique of the judgement of taste / Pierre Bourdieu; translated by Richard Nice. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press. Print.

Bourdieu, P, 1984(b), “The dynamics of the Fields: Elective Affinities,” Distinction: a social critique of the judgement of taste / Pierre Bourdieu; translated by Richard Nice. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press. Print.

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