Zaretsky's cushion of capitalism
Marxist theory by Zaretsky that the family provides emotional compensation and escapism for capitalist exploitation, functioning as a 'cushion' that allows workers to tolerate alienation and continue labouring.
Real World
Amazon warehouse workers enduring gruelling 10-hour shifts often cite 'providing for my family' as their motivation, illustrating Zaretsky's argument that family emotional bonds keep exploited workers returning to alienating jobs.
Exam Focus
Always contrast Zaretsky with Parsons — both see family as stress relief, but Zaretsky frames it as serving capitalism, not individuals.
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