Voting Behavior & The Media Definitions Flashcards
Class dealignment
This happens when people no longer vote based on their social class. In the past, working-class people were more likely to vote Labour, while middle-class people tended to vote Conservative. However, class dealignment means voters now make decisions based on other factors, such as policies, leaders, or personal beliefs.
Partisan dealignment
This occurs when voters no longer feel a strong loyalty to one political party. In the past, many people consistently voted for the same party their whole lives, but now, more voters switch between parties from election to election based on issues, leadership, or performance.
Governing competency
This refers to how well a political party is seen as capable of running the country. If a government is viewed as competent, people are more likely to vote for them. If they are seen as failing to manage issues like the economy or public services, they might lose support in the next election.
Disillusion and apathy
Disillusionment happens when people lose trust in politicians or the political system, making them feel that their vote doesn’t matter. Apathy is when people simply don’t care about politics. Both can lead to lower voter turnout, especially among young people and those who feel ignored by politicians.
Manifesto
A document published by a political party before an election that outlines what they will do if they win. It includes policies and promises on issues like healthcare, education, and the economy, giving voters a clear idea of what the party stands for.
Mandate
When a party wins an election, they gain a mandate, meaning they have the authority to carry out their policies because they were elected by the people. A strong mandate comes from a large majority, making it easier to pass laws, while a weak mandate can lead to difficulties in governing.
