Ideology is the principle of organization of society

In a simple sense, ideology is, above all, a system of views and ideas. This is a very important social phenomenon, which currently has several types. All of them were formed in strict dependence on the realities characteristic of this or that epoch. Ideology is closely connected with politics, since it is part of the state structure on which the implementation of this or that system of views depends. To better understand this phenomenon, we will consider the history of its occurrence, species, and also explore the role played by ideology in modern society.

Concept of ideology

For the first time the French spoke of it: A. Destutom de Tracy and Etienne de Condillac at the end of the 18th century tried to create a science whose subject would be devoted to the ideas and principles of their formation. They believed that this doctrine should structure the rules of leadership in social life, therefore its basis should be elements of law, politics and morality.

But Napoleon rejected the abstract ideas of these scientists, and the concept of ideology was forgotten until Karl Marx began to create his theory, in which it subsequently became one of the key. According to Marxist theory, ideology is an expression of the interests of a particular class.

At present, it is perceived as a system of views that contains the interests of a small group or society, and also reflects the attitude of people towards reality.

Types of ideology

Since ideology is a multifaceted concept that includes a whole system of views, over time, several of its kinds have been formed under the influence of political and economic factors.

• Liberal. This ideology draws attention to the freedom of man. Its adherents believe that the rights and freedom of everyone should be backed by a legal framework. Also here is the greatest freedom of disposal of property: the legislation regulates this process minimally, allowing a person to use his property in the way he likes. In general, according to liberalism, any manifestation of personality (behavior in society, as well as ways of self-realization) should be minimally limited by legislation: on the one hand, this is a positive quality of ideology, but freedom must be timely, because inappropriate liberalism can corrupt society.
• Conservative ideology is, above all, adherence to traditions, values and religious doctrines. It denies extremism and any radical reforms, but encourages stability, security and military strength.
• Socialist. This ideology proclaims social justice and equality. Public property is a characteristic feature of socialism. Citizens provide the state, and they, in turn, work for its benefit.
• Anti-ideology. Recently, it is becoming more popular, means rejection of any of the existing ideologies.

The main functions of ideology

There are 5 main functions:

1. Orientation of mankind. Since ideology contains a system of values, as well as the basic provisions on the structure of society and the role of an individual in it, one way or another, in the implementation of these views, people's activities are corrected.
2. Mobilization of people. Supporters of ideology are grouped together to realize the common views they adhere to.
3. Integration of society. The ideology is more global in nature than any personal interest, in this is expressed the integration of people: they accept common views and interests.
4. Depreciation. Sometimes there is a discrepancy between the needs and capabilities of classes and groups of people. Then ideology serves to weaken, mitigate the conflict situation.
5. Expression and protection of interests. Ideology is formed taking into account the circumstances of real life. Despite the presence of sublime ideas in any concept, some of them are of practical importance. After all, ideas that do not bring practical benefit rarely have many adherents. From this it follows that every system of views adopted by society corresponds to someone's interests, and accordingly, is aimed at their implementation and protection.

In modern conditions, as we see, ideology is a necessary phenomenon that allows us to unite society and direct it towards common goals.