ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the characteristics of cultural and ideological systems in dependent societies. It deals with questions concerning the nature and dynamics of a super-structure that is the expression of a dependent economic system. Dependence may be seen as a general framework that qualifies the inclusion of a country in the international capitalist system, at present under the hegemonic power of the United States. The set of values and beliefs that constitute capitalist ideology is based on some fundamental principles designed to ensure the maintenance and propagation of the capitalist mode of production. The idea of a capitalist ideology and culture, spreading throughout the world along with the imperialist expansion of capitalism poses new issues for a theory of cultural domination. The role of ideological and cultural homogenization has been characterized as one of preservation and reinforcement of the capitalist system.
