2.1 Political Parties Flashcards
Define what a political party is?
An organisation of people with similar beliefs that tries to exert influence by gaining power of a state
What are the features of a political party?
- members share similar beliefs
- seek to secure an election result
- develops policy, recruits candidates and leaders
What are the 7 functions of political parties?
- making policy
- representation
- selecting candidates
- identifying leaders
- organising elections
- education
- reinforcing consent
Explain the policy making function of political parties…
To make the intentions of a party clear, usually through a manifesto. It does through the process of aggregation. Policy making is especially important for the opposition as they are trying to take over from the current government
What is aggregation?
A proccess of converting policies, demands and ideas into a practical policy programme
Explain the representation function of political parties…
In the past, parties claim to have represented a specific section of society
Now, however, they claim to represent the national interest. So, parties want to ensure all the demands and needs by different sections are considered by government
Explain the selection of candidates function of political parties?
They find prospective local councillors, elected mayors, and members for devolved assemblies.
Explain the identifying leaders function of political parties?
Parties have the job of selecting appropriate people to run the party. The PM has the job of appointing minsters and the opposition leader has the role of selecting a group of frontbench MPs who serve as the shadow government
Explain the political education function of political parties?
Parties are involved in the process of educating citizens about the issues of the day and outlining the issues to said problem. Function is becoming less important due to the rise of the media.
Explain the reinforcing consent function of political parties?
All the main parties support the UK political system so that ensures the general population consents the system as well.
What are the 5 different types of funding?
- donations
- holding fundraisers
- party membership
- loans from wealthy individuals and banks
- self financing candidates
Why can donations be seen as controversial?
Some parties have the backing of wealthy organisations and people. The Labour Party and trade unions, the Conservative party and businessmen
How can holding fundraisers be seen as controversial?
Can be a place to lobby government
What is cash for honours?
The suspicion that donations have been made to a party with the expectation the giver will receive honours
How can funding from party membership be seen as controversial?
Bias towards larger parties with a big membership
