Marxism deals heavily in ideologies. Just like the Marxist theories dealing with economics, Marxism focuses on what are the ideologies that are being pushed by the rich and powerful/ruling class. Many aspects of culture are determined by this dominant ideology and people not in charge try to adhere to these things in an attempt to become part of the elite. Marxists believe that the media is overrun by these ideologies and everything the working class will consume just reinforces these ideas. They think that the working class' dissatisfaction comes from needing to work to consume to try and become like the ruling class. They work at jobs they don't always like to purchase more things to meet the status quo, which is set by others and maintained in a way that prevents the working class from becoming the elite.
In analyzing a piece of media or another work, the critic should determine what the dominant ideology is that is being put forth in the work. They should ask questions like: How is this work aiding or subverting the ideology (or status quo) put forth? How is the ruling class starting on top, or how is the status quo being maintained? How is the lower class trying to move up in society? These kinds of questions will aid in the analysis. The focus in the analysis should be on distinguishing the "us" and the "them" presented in the media. How are those groups separated and what is maintaining that separation? What makes people the "in" group and what makes them outsiders?
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