Who among the following believes that the superstructure is relatively autonomous?
A. Louis Althusser
B. Gramsci
C. Poulantazs
D. Mao Zedang
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is B

Louis Althusser and Nicos Poulantzas argued that the superstructure (law, politics, culture) can have relative autonomy from the economic base in Marxist theory. Gramsci focused on hegemony and the role of civil society but did not specifically emphasize the autonomy of the superstructure as a concept. Mao Zedong did not theorize this concept in his works.
Information Booster:
1. Althusser introduced the idea of ideological state apparatuses.
2. Poulantzas expanded on state power dynamics and relative autonomy.
3. Gramsci emphasized cultural hegemony over economic determinism.
4. Marxist theory traditionally views the base as determining the superstructure.
5. Relative autonomy allows for political and cultural influences to shape society.
6. These theories broaden the interpretation of state and societal dynamics.
Additional Information:
· Option (A) Louis Althusser: Correct; known for the theory of relative autonomy.
· Option (B) Gramsci: Incorrect; focused more on hegemony and civil society.
· Option (C) Poulantzas: Correct; built upon Althusser’s ideas of state autonomy.
· Option (D) Mao Zedong: Incorrect; focused on Marxist-Leninist thought, not superstructure autonomy.