Sample Solution

Electric light can be understood as a Repressive State Apparatus (RSA) in that it functions as both a literal and symbolic tool of control. On the literal level, electric light is used to illuminate public spaces such as streets which serves a surveillance purpose by making people more visible and easier to monitor. This allows for greater enforcement of laws, rules and regulations which reinforces existing power structures (Lee et al 2020).

Additionally, lighting also extends well beyond its function as a security measure; instead it has come to symbolize progress and prosperity since brighter cities are often seen as more advanced or modern. This notion encourages citizens to strive for higher standards while simultaneously suggesting that these achievements could only be attained through government intervention. In this way, electric light serves the state’s agenda by promoting certain ideologies while dissuading others.

Furthermore, not everyone benefits equally from this type of development; lower income households may struggle with the cost associated with energy bills or they may be living in areas where access to electricity is limited due to structural disadvantages like poverty or racism (Lee et al 2020). As such this presents an ideal opportunity for governments to exercise their power over those who are unable or unwilling to participate in society thus further entrenching hegemonic divisions within communities.

In conclusion, electric light operates effectively as RSA due its multifaceted nature which allows states to extend their influence into many aspects of our lives whether directly through regulation or indirectly through symbolism (Lee et al 2020).