Politics: 2.1 Political Parties Functions and Features Flashcards
What historical interests did the Labour and Conservative parties represent?
Labour historically represented working class interests, while the Conservatives represented the interests of the landed gentry and aristocracy.
What factors have undermined the primary role of political parties?
Partisan and class dealignment, as well as the emergence of ‘catch-all’ parties.
Are political parties beneficial for democracy?
It is debated whether it is better for democracy that parties aim for broader appeal rather than solely representing the views of their membership.
How do parties contribute to citizen education and political engagement?
Parties inform citizens of key issues and encourage political engagement through campaigning during elections.
What influences participation within political parties?
Participation by membership depends on the internal democratic structures of each party.
What role do parties play in candidate selection?
Parties select candidates at all levels and provide political training to those deemed suitable for the job.
How do parties create leaders?
Parties create leaders who govern the country, as ordinary voters vote for their preferred party rather than directly for a Prime Minister.
What is the significance of policy formulation within parties?
Parties discuss and develop policy proposals, presenting them in a coherent programme (the manifesto) to the electorate.
What happens to policy when a party is in government?
The policy formed by the party becomes the mechanism for making laws and decisions.
What is the role of parties in opposition?
In opposition, parties critique the government and propose alternative policies, allowing general membership to take a more active role.
What is ‘aggregation’ in the context of political parties?
Aggregation is the process of converting policies, demands, and ideas into practical policy programmes for government.
What would the House of Commons look like without parties?
Without parties, it would be a gathering of individuals driven by personal goals and ambitions.
How do parties provide order and cohesion in government?
Parties present voters with a clear choice before an election and allow a single party or coalition to form a government.
What is a hidden function of political parties?
A hidden function is their support for the UK system of parliamentary democracy.
What happens if a party fundamentally challenges the political system?
It creates political conflict within society, as seen with parties like Sinn Fein in Westminster.