Final answer:
The economy is highlighted as the key element of society that is particularly important to the author, as it shapes the culture and social institutions of a society according to Karl Marx's 'base and superstructure' theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the provided texts, the element of society that is of great importance to the author is the economy, which Karl Marx sees as the foundation or 'base' of a society. Marx's concept of 'base and superstructure' highlights the idea that the economic character of a society shapes its culture and social institutions, or the 'superstructure.'
The chapter also emphasizes the interconnectedness of various social elements, suggesting that changes in one aspect, like the economy, can lead to shifts in others, such as gender relations or political values. This view aligns with the idea that understanding how societies hold together is crucial—each part, from the economy to family and cultural institutions, contributes to societal cohesion.
Furthermore, the reflection on individualism and community-centered values in different countries, alongside the implication that cultural and societal changes influence interpretive communities, underscores the importance the author places on socio-economic constructs in shaping individual and collective lives.