Media and Voting Behaviour Flashcards
What is voting behaviour?
Patterns in how people vote.
How does the media influence
voting?
Media shapes public opinion and decisions.
What is partisan alignment?
Being part of a particular political party
What is class dealignment?
Decline in class-based voting patterns.
What is issue voting?
Voting based on specific policies.
What is a swing voter?
Voter who is not related to a particular party
What is media bias?
Media favouring one party or perspective.
What is agenda-setting?
Media shaping public priorities and issues.
What is framing?
Media presenting an issue in a certain way.
What is the ‘rally-round-the-flag’ effect?
Increased support for government during crises.
What is the influence of social media?
Direct impact on voter opinions and mobilization.
Case study: 2015 UK general election - Social media increased youth voter turnout.
What is psephology?
Study of electoral behaviour and voting patterns.
What is the bandwagon effect?
Voters support a candidate gaining popularity.
What is the boomerang effect?
Voters oppose media-endorsed candidate more.
What is tactical voting?
Voting strategically to prevent undesired outcomes.
Case study: 2019 UK general election - Labour voters in marginal seats voted tactically.
What is political participation?
Engagement in political processes beyond voting.
What is the role of the press?
Inform, influence, and scrutinize political activities.
What is the decline of print media?
Shift to online news sources.
What is media consolidation?
Control of media by a few companies.
What is the role of celebrity endorsement?
Famous individuals influencing voting behaviour.
Case study: 2017 UK general election - Celebrity endorsements, like from J.K. Rowling, influenced Labour’s youth vote.
What is the role of televised debates?
Influence undecided voters in elections.
Case study: 2010 UK general election - TV debates helped Clegg gain popularity.
What is political polarization in the media?
Increased division of opinions in media.
What is the ‘spinning’ technique?
Politicians using media to shape perceptions.
What is framing in election coverage?
How media presents a candidate’s image.
What is voter apathy?
Lack of interest or participation in voting.
Case study: 2008 US Presidential Election - Obama’s media strategy mobilized younger voters.
What is a scandal?
A political event causing public outrage.
Case study: The Profumo Affair - 1960s scandal involving Minister John Profumo.
What is the 2009 UK expenses scandal?
MPs claimed excessive expenses, leading to resignations.
What is the ‘Cash for Questions’ scandal?
MPs taking bribes in exchange for political favours.
What is the ‘Phone Hacking’ scandal?
News of the World hacked phones, affecting public trust.
What is corruption in politics?
Dishonest or illegal actions by politicians.
