A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What does Gramsci's concept of hegemony refer to?

1. A straightforward exercise of power

2. An overt form of coercion by the ruling class

3. A deep-seated influence that gains consent for oppression

4. A purely ideological struggle without material consequences

The correct answer is: A deep-seated influence that gains consent for oppression

Gramsci's concept of hegemony refers to a deep-seated influence that gains consent for oppression. This idea emphasizes that the ruling class maintains power not solely through overt coercion or force, but by establishing a cultural and ideological framework that is accepted and internalized by the subjugated classes. Hegemony operates through the creation of a social order where the values, norms, and beliefs of the ruling class become the common sense of the broader society, thereby securing voluntary consent to their domination. This contrasts with more simplistic views of power, which see it as a straightforward exercise or only an overt form of coercion, where authority is imposed without cultural acceptance. Gramsci's theory importantly highlights the role of culture, ideology, and consent in the exercise of power, indicating that maintaining hegemony involves persuading those who are oppressed that the existing social arrangements are beneficial or natural. It suggests that struggles for change must not only address material conditions but also challenge the dominant ideologies that justify oppression. Thus, this understanding of hegemony allows us to see how power dynamics can be maintained in more subtle, yet deeply ingrained ways, reflecting the complexity of societal control beyond mere force or coercion. The implications of this concept extend to