The Sublime Object of Ideology

"The Sublime Object of Ideology" is a concept by Louis Althusser that explores how ideology shapes our understanding of the world. It suggests that ideology constructs a central idea or symbol—called the "sublime object"—that we believe reflects reality but also serves to organize our social and personal beliefs. This object often remains partly hidden and unquestioned, guiding our actions and perceptions without us fully realizing its influence. Essentially, it illustrates how ideas or symbols become focal points in our minds that support and sustain societal structures and power relations.