The superstructure is developed above the surface level.
The superstructure is the part of a construction that is above ground level. It is therefore differentiated from infrastructure (the part of the construction that is below ground level).
For naval engineering , the superstructure is the part of the ships that appears above the deck. Civil engineering , for its part, considers that the superstructure is the structural part that is supported by columns or other support elements.
In this way, for example, a bridge has as its superstructure all those elements that are positioned above the pillars and columns that support it.
Superstructure in the railway field
In the railway field, of course, the superstructure is also a fundamental element to undertake the construction of the corresponding tracks that allow trains to circulate without any problems and with all the relevant safety measures.
In this area, the superstructure is the set formed by the track, the devices and the rest of the facilities that are necessary for the efficient and safe operation of the train. These include, therefore, the ballast, sleepers, lag bolts, turnouts, point changes or signals, among others.
The concept in Marxism
In another sense, the superstructure refers to the cultural or ideological structure that is based on another . The term is common in Marxist theory, which states that the superstructure is the ideas of a society that arise from its economic base.
Historical materialism maintains that infrastructure is the material basis of society. The superstructure depends on it: this means that morality , philosophy , artistic manifestations, religion , science and any political institution are conditioned by the material base.
For Marxism, the superstructure is formed by the ideas of a society, in turn dependent on economic (material) conditions.
The superstructure, linked to the interests of the ruling class
More specifically, we can establish that in Marxism it is determined that infrastructure is responsible for determining both development and social change, and also that it is made up of workers and the different set of natural resources and technical means that are used. have.
The superstructure does not have an independent existence, but develops according to the interests of the ruling class. Its changes are a consequence of the modifications that occur in the infrastructure.
This Marxist thought assumes that there is no independence of thought with respect to material conditions. The infrastructure conditions the development of mental activity. The Marxist revolution appeals to the change of infrastructure to change the whole of society , including social relations, institutions and all elements of the superstructure.
The notion in sexuality
Finally, we have to make it clear that reference is also made to what is known as the superstructure of sexuality. It is a term that makes clear what the fundamental keys are so that any couple can enjoy a pleasant intimate relationship.
Specifically, it is considered that to achieve success at that level, sexual vigor, caresses, fantasies, kisses, toys and even what would be visual stimuli must be present.