Comparative approaches: Theories US vs UK Flashcards
Rational Approach
Focuses on individuals, assuming they operate in their own self-interest, making rational decisions. Individuals have their own political goals, and will make decisions to best achieve those goals, hence a rational approach.
Example of Rational Approach
narrative used by Donald Trump in the 2016 election, with slogans such as “Make America Great Again”, which resonated with individual voters.
Cultural Approach
focuses on ideas within a state, rather than individuals or institutions. Culture is a set of beliefs and values that members of a community identify with.
‘British culture’ and ‘American culture’, and so cultural approaches to comparative politics suggest that there are shared values among US citizens that inform their political decisions.
Evaluation of Cultural Approach
UK and US are not monocultural, and many cultures have emerged within these countries. Therefore, this approach has many criticisms as it makes assumptions about the collective culture of very diverse countries.
Structural Approach
looks at the institutions and processes within a state and how they can explain political outcomes.
Example of Structural Approach
US and UK are representative democracies, there are many structures involved in politics, such as the legislative and Executive branches of government.
