October 21, Slides 10-11 Flashcards
What are cadre parties, and how do they function?
CCadre parties developed in the early stages of parliamentary government. They consist of members of the legislature with common views who work together, often called a “caucus.”networks rather than mass mobilization.
How did mass parties transform political participation?
Mass parties emerged to represent large groups, such as the working class or religious communities. They rely on extensive grassroots networks, emphasizing ideology, organization, and the mobilization of broad memberships.
What are brokerage parties, and why are they significant in modern politics?
Brokerage parties aim to bridge diverse interests, often prioritizing electoral success over ideology. Common in countries like Canada, they emphasize compromise and appeal to a wide spectrum of voters to form stable governments.
What is the historical context of cadre parties?
Cadre parties emerged in a context of restricted franchise, where voting rights were limited, making the prestige and financial support of elite members essential resources.
How were cadre parties organized?
Cadre parties were loosely organized with low “party discipline,” relying on informal collaboration rather than strict organizational structures.
What is the context for the emergence of mass parties?
Mass parties arose when voting rights began to extend to larger populations, making it essential for parties to organize broad support bases to secure electoral victories.
What is the primary resource for mass parties, and why is it crucial?
The number of supporters (voters) became the critical resource for mass parties. Larger membership bases provided political leverage and the ability to mobilize significant voting blocs.
What were the first types of mass parties, and who did they represent?
Early mass parties were predominantly working-class-based (left-wing). Over time, religious and ethnic identity-based parties also emerged, reflecting diverse societal divisions.
What are the opportunities provided by mass parties in political systems?
Mass parties allow for broader representation due to the larger voter base, making the system more democratic. They are well-organized, which aids in consolidating the party’s message and extending its reach to a wider audience.
What are some inherent problems in mass parties, and what tensions do they face?
Mass parties often face organizational challenges and internal tensions. Conflicts arise between party organizational leaders and legislative members, as well as between the parliamentary wing and the more radical base of the party, leading to struggles over maintaining political integration.
