Assembly line Quote by Mariarosa Dalla Costa
““The final proof that this alien indoctrination which begins in nursery school is based on the splitting of the family is that those working class children who arrive (those few who do arrive) at university are so brainwashed that they are unable any longer to talk to their community. Working class children then are the first who instinctively rebel against schools and the education provided in schools. But their parents carry them to schools and confine them to schools because they are concerned that their children should “have an education”, that is, be equipped to escape the assembly line or the kitchen to which they, the parents, are confined. If a working class child shows particular aptitudes, the whole family immediately concentrates on this child, gives him the best conditions, often sacrificing the others, hoping and gambling that he will carry them all out of the working class. This in effect becomes the way capital moves through the aspirations of the parents to enlist their help in disciplining fresh labor power.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Class and Education, 1970s
The education system perpetuates class divisions, using schooling to both control and exploit working‑class children while promising upward mobility.
In simple terms: Schools reinforce class hierarchies and shape labor.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge systemic educational biases.
Themes
class
education
capitalism
family dynamics
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
theoretical
political
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- parental advocacy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
social reproduction
ideology
labor discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How does schooling shape class identity?
- What alternatives exist for equitable education?
A Different Perspective
Systemic change is slow and faces resistance.
