ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the influence of ideologies in somewhat negative terms – as hindrances to supposedly pure understanding. The ideologies of Hegel and Marx are particularly deterministic. They suggest that human systems are externally made by outside forces which, as it were, possess them. So allergic are the adherents of deterministic ideologies to the supposed threats of alien systems that they become embattled against them as soon as they reach a position of strength. The supreme example of government and planning in accordance with an ideology is, of course, the Soviet Union. The greatest difference between a modern political ideology and other 'orthodox' ideologies is one of degree, and of field of interest. Friction can arise, however, between apparently homogeneous ideologies. The risks and promises inherent in any educational activity demand unquestionably that teachers should see their daily work as taking place within the framework of an ideology, whether they are conscious participants in it or pawns.
