Political Parties Flashcards
Definition of a political party
A political party is an organisation that develops a set of political goals and policies, which it seeks to convert into political action by obtaining government office, or a share in government, or by influencing the government of the day
Features of political parties
Develop policies and programmes to present to the electorate in order to secure the election of its candidates
Large parties have the securing of government office as their primary goal
When a party is in position to fight elections it must select suitable candidates
Parties ultimately rely upon successful leadership. Leaders give the party direction and are essential for the mobilisation of public support
Functions of political parties
The development of policies and political programmes
Especially important when a party is in opposition and is seeking to replace the government of the day
When a ruling party controls the government its leadership is the government, there is no distinction between the two
Representative function ensures that all groups in society have their interests and demands at least considered by government
Spend a lot of time selecting candidates for office at all levels
What is the difference between left and right wing politics?
Commonly used in everyday political discussion to describe an individuals or groups political stance
Left is characterised on emphasis such as ideas as freedom, equality, fraternity, rights, progress, reform and institutionalism
Right is characterised by emphasis on nations such as authority, hierarchy, order, duty, tradition, reaction and nationalism
How do they differ?
Economics and trade on the left- state economic planning and nationalism of all major industries
Right- strong support for totally free markets, no state intervention for the economy
Origins and the development of the Conservative Party
During the 17th century, it became clear that the supporters of Parliament and democracy were going upper hand over royalists
With Industrial Revolution and growth of international markets, capitalist middle classes began to grow in size and influence s
Rise challenged the traditional authority of aristocracy and landed gentry
Middle class (represented Whig’s and landed gentry) began to describe as conservatives
As 19th century progressed, as did conservatism into what we know today
Sir Robert Peel is the first Conservative Party leader
Party’s objectives were to prevent country falling too far into inequality, to preserve unity of kingdom and to preserve order in society
Conservative ideas and policies today
Only a balanced budget can promote economic growth
Party policy remains pragmatic and cautious about economic policy
Party believes government policy should promote free markets and free trade
Party retains the view that prison and stern punishments are the best deterrent for crime
Opposed to liberal ideas about crime and punishments
Stress and security and need for it and see it as first duty of government to protect its citizens
Policy concentrates
