Ideology

Definition

Ideology is a system of ideas, beliefs, and values that shapes an individual's or group's worldview and influences their social and political actions. It serves as a framework for understanding social stratification by justifying the positions of different groups within society.

Related terms

Social stratification: The hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on wealth, power, race, education, etc.

Class consciousness: An individual's awareness of their own social class and economic position relative to others within the structure of society.

Cultural hegemony: The dominance of one social group’s set of ideas over others, effectively influencing societal norms and ideologies without obvious force