Economic Base and Superstructure

The economic base refers to the core industries and activities that produce the goods and services supporting a community or society, such as manufacturing, agriculture, or services. It generates income and employment, shaping the community’s economic health. The superstructure consists of the social, political, and cultural institutions—like government, laws, and cultural norms—that develop based on the economic foundation. Essentially, the economic base influences and sustains the superstructure, which in turn reflects and maintains the values and structure of society. Together, they represent the relationship between economic activities and societal organization.