What does Antonio Gramsci's theory of cultural hegemony suggest about societal control?

Antonio Gramsci's theory of cultural hegemony posits that societal control can be effectively maintained by dominant social classes through cultural means rather than force. This theory highlights how a single social class can shape the norms, values, and beliefs of society, allowing them to maintain power and influence over other classes without relying solely on political or coercive methods.

Gramsci argued that the ruling class achieves hegemony by promoting its worldview as the "common sense" perspective, influencing the ways people think, behave, and understand their place in society. This cultural influence enables them to gain consent from the subordinate classes, making the status quo appear natural and inevitable.

In this context, the idea that culturally diverse societies can be controlled by a single social class accurately reflects Gramsci's notion of hegemony, where the dominant culture exerts influence over various societal groups, leading to a uniformity of thought that supports the ruling class's interests.