Political Parties Flashcards
What is the definition of Ideology?
The core beliefs and ideas of political parties. US parties were traditionally seen as much less ideological than their UK equivalents.
What is the definition of Factionalism?
Different groups within the same party that often compete for power and influence. Most factions reflect either moderate or more extreme positions within the party.
What is the definition of Party Decline?
This approach argues that parties have become weak and enfeebled, with little real power or grip on US politics.
What is the definition of Party Renewal?
In contrast to Party Decline, this approach argues that parties remain central to US political life and have grown in importance and relevance in recent times.
What are Party Organisations?
Formal structures of a political party, such as the RNC - Republican National Committee - and the DNC - Democratic National Committee.
What are Third Parties?
Parties other than the Republicans and Democrats, such as the Green Party or the Libertarian Party.
What are Independent Candidates?
Candidates that are not affiliated with long-established parties. Usually such individuals, including Ross Perot, set up their own party (in Perot’s case, the Reform Party).
