VARIOUS TYPES OF PARTY SYSTEMS Flashcards
- One-Party System
A system where a single political party has the right to form the government, usually based on the existing constitution. Examples: China, Cuba
Characteristics: ONE PARTY SYSTEM
- Only one constitutionally recognized party
- No official opposition
- Elections conducted by one party
- Joining other parties considered treason
ADVANTAGES OF ONE PARTY SYSTEM
Stable Government: Since only one party controls the government, there’s no competition or power struggle between different parties, which helps keep things stable.
Less Expensive: With just one party in charge, there’s no need for frequent elections to fill political positions, saving money.
Quick Decisions: A single-party system can make decisions faster because there’s no debate between multiple parties.
DISADVANTAGE: ONE PARTY SYSTEM
Can Lead to Dictatorship: In a one-party system, the government can become a dictatorship, where one leader has total control and doesn’t allow any opposition or different opinions.
Undemocratic: Democracy is about people having a say in how their country is run. In a one-party system, people have little or no opportunity to participate in decisions.
More Corruption: With all the power in the hands of one party or group, there’s a higher risk of corruption because no one is checking or limiting their actions.
TWO PARTY SYSTEM
: A system where two major political parties dominate politics within a government. Examples: United States, Britain, Australia
ADVANTAGES: TWO PARTY SYSTEM
More Ideas Can Become Law: Since there are two parties, different ideas from each party can influence the laws, making it more balanced.
Simplifies Governing: With just two main parties, it’s easier for voters to choose who they want in charge, and the government can make decisions more smoothly.
Easier to Understand Information: While voters have fewer choices, the two parties make it easier to understand their ideas and policies, since they focus on presenting clear, simple information.
DISADVATAGE: TWO PARTY SYSTEM
Creates Exclusivity: In some states, voters always choose the same party in presidential elections, which can limit variety and different ideas from other parties.
Limits Voter Choices: Even though many people run for president, voters are usually only focused on the two main parties, which limits their options.
Voting Based on Name Recognition: In a two-party system, many people vote for candidates they know by name, not necessarily the best choice, leading to the same politicians being re-elected over and over. This is why some want term limits for Congress members.
MULTI-PARTY SYSTEM
A system where multiple political parties can gain control of government offices, separately or in coalition. Examples: Italy, France, South Africa
CHARACTERISTICS: MULTI PARTY
- Wider representation of diverse opinions
- Regular elections
- Often leads to coalition governments
- Prevents dictatorship
ADVANTAGES MULTI PARTY
Supports Democracy: A multi-party system gives people the chance to express their opinions and make choices in the government.
More Opinions in Parliament: With more parties, there are more different ideas and opinions in the government, which can be good for the country.
Wider Choice for Voters: Unlike one-party or two-party systems, a multi-party system gives voters many more political parties to choose from.
DISADVANTEGES: MULTI PARTY
- Waste of resources
- It is expensive to run
- Leads to unhealthy rivalry
- It encourages corruption in the parliament
One-Party Dominant System
A system where one party consistently wins elections and whose defeat is unlikely for the foreseeable future. Examples: ANC in South Africa (1994-present),
ADVANTAGES ONE PARTY DOMINANT SYSTEM
- Transformation of the country;
- Political stability needed for long term democracy
- Helped secure peace, and some development;
4.Discourage ethnic conflict
DISADVANTAGES ONE PARTY DOMINANT SYSTEM
Due to a ‘lack of fear of the ballot’ the dominant party may
begin to display complacency and arrogance, and possibly
corruption.
This system is also often characterised by weak and
ineffective opposition, especially where the dominant party
feels no obligation to take their criticism into account.
This could lead to weak accountability and oversight between
principal and the agent.
Voter apathy is highly probable.
Non-Partisan System
Elections take place without reference to political parties. Usually found in countries with small populations where formal political parties are considered unnecessary.
