4. Voting Behaviour and the Media

Question 1

Class dealignment

Answer 1

The process where individuals no longer identify themselves as belonging to a certain class and for political purposes fail to make a class connection with their voting pattern.

Question 2

Partisan Alignment

Answer 2

The process where individuals no longer identify themselves on a long-term basis by being associated with a certain political party.

Question 3

Governing Competency

Answer 3

The perceived ability of the governing party in office to manage the affairs of the state well and effectively. It can also be a potential view of opposition parties and their perceived governing competency if they were to secure office.

Question 4

Manifesto

Answer 4

In its manifesto, a political party will spell out in detail what actions and programmes it would like to put in place if it is successful in the next election – a set of promises for future action.

Question 5

Mandate

Answer 5

The successful party following an election claims it has the authority (mandate) to implement its manifesto promises and also a general permission to govern as new issues arise.