Party systems - Nov 2022 Flashcards
What is a dominant party system?
A number of different political parties exist but only 1 holds government power
What is a multi-party system?
Many different parties compete for power and government consists of a series of coalitions formed by different combinations of parties
What is a single party system?
One party dominates and bans other parties exercising total control over candidacy at elections
What is a two party system?
Where 2 fairly equally matched parties compete for power at elections and others have little realistic chance of breaking their duopoly
What is an argument in favour of a multi-party system?
There are a range of different views which will be represented within the government. Multi-party systems often rely on having a series of coalitions which means that the views of not just one party are represented but two or more.
What is an argument in favour of a 2 party system?
Means there can be strong government who are able to pass legislation and a strong opposition who can compete to win at elections. Means while in government, one party can make effective change, but voters have real and significant choice come election time
What is an argument in favour of a dominant party system?
Can argue term lengths for government are not long enough. Four years doesn’t give a party enough time to make meaningful changes. By having a dominant party system, it means governments can bring in change and see the impacts of these changes within their time in power rather than having a limited time in government
Give an example of a dominant party system…
In Japan under the Liberal Democratic party between 1955 and 1993
Give an example of a multi-party system..
Italy between 1945 and 1993
Give an example of a single party system…
Nazi Germany, North Korea, China and Russia
Give an example of a two party system …
Most believe the UK has a two party system but this has been challenged by some who argue the UK is a dominant party system and the rise of the Lib Dems in the early 21st century lead to the UK becoming of a multi-party system However collapse of Lib Dem after coalition gov would suggest the idea of the UK being a multi-party system
Give 2 ways the UK could be described as a multi party system?
- Amount of voters who voted for parties besides the big two ( Labour and Cons)
-Minority parties are able to secure seats and representation in local elections
Give 2 pieces of evidence to support why the UK could be seen as a multiparty system…
2015- 32.7% of UK voters voted for parties other than the big 2
2019- Green Party gained 265 councillors
