Comparative Theories Flashcards
Structural Theory
This approach focuses on the difference between institutions such as the
legislatures, executives and judiciaries.
The structure of institutions determine relationships within a nation such as
between the government and the governed, the chief executive and their
cabinet, the judiciary and the legislature.
A structural approach would therefore focus on such things as constitutions,
class structures, political parties, electoral systems. In other words,
institutions, structures and processes within a nation.
Cultural Theory
Culture is defined as shared, learned and symbolic system of values, beliefs
ideas and attitudes. These shape perceptions and general behaviour within a
nation.
This presumes a shared approach to politics.
A cultural approach might be used to explain why there are different
attitudes to gun control in the USA & UK or why the US is more in awe of its
constitution than the UK.
Rational Theory
All individuals are motivated in some way by self interest and therefore act in
a rational way to achieve what is best for them as an individual.
Therefore a rational approach can be used to study and understand voter
behaviour, membership of political parties and pressure groups and may even
explain the political behaviour of prime ministers, presidents, cabinet
members, MPs and members of congress.
