Ideology

In this essay I will define ideology and state its characteristics and features.   I will also provide my opinion and concept of ideology based upon the research I did on this topic. Ideology combines two greek roots, edios for word, and logos for knowledge.   Literally translated it would mean words of knowledge.   Ideology is best defined in many forms, articles and texts as a study, system or theory of ideas, beliefs, principles and political ideas.   From which shows how society supports and views itself economically. As well as being principles that represent different ways of thinking and social needs.   Ideological ideas or beliefs reflect social needs and aspirations of an individual, group, class or culture, and even a base of a party of a political or religious movement, and are present in any human enterprise.   These ideas and beliefs are action oriented and embody or articulate class or social interest as well as generate some sense of collective belonging.   They may propagate a false consciousness and even claim a monopoly of truth.   Ideological beliefs explain how political change can and should be brought about in considering the best form of government and economic system.   Modes can legitimize a political system or regime and provide the basis for organized political action whether this is intended to preserve modify or overthrow the existing system of power.
The ideology concept has its origins in the French revolution.   Antoine Louis Claude Destutt, Comte de Tracy (1754-1836) coined the word ideology during the revolutionary period in France as ideas inspired many into political action. His beliefs drew on the work of John Locke (1634-1704).   His major argument was that we could determine the truth or falsity of ideas for the purposes of political action.   Historically Napoleon Bonaparte termed the word ideologues, with ideas to subject politics to scientific ideas as a guide for post-revolutionary ‘democratic’ France.   Thirty years later Karl Marx... [continues]

Read full essay