Voting Behaviour and The Media Flashcards
What is the significance of social class in general elections ?
Social class has traditionally shaped UK voting patterns, with working-class voters leaning Labour and middle/upper classes favoring the Conservatives. However, its influence has decreased over time, with other factors like education, age, and cultural identity now playing a larger role.
What is the significance of ethnicity in general elections?
Ethnicity influences UK elections, with ethnic minorities historically favoring Labour, though voting patterns are shifting as factors like, education, and cultural identity become more important.
What is the significance of region/geography in UK general elections?
Region significantly impacts UK elections. Voters in the north of England, Scotland, and Wales often support Labour, while the south, especially rural areas, tends to favor the Conservatives. Recent elections have seen shifts, particularly with the “Red Wall” in northern England turning Conservative. Scotland has also seen a rise in SNP support.
What is the significance of age in general elections?
Age is a key factor in UK general elections. Younger voters tend to support Labour, the Greens, or Liberal Democrats, while older voters are more likely to back the Conservatives. This generational divide has become more pronounced in recent years, with older voters often prioritizing issues like Brexit and security, while younger voters focus on climate change, education, and social justice.
To what extent has party/class dealignment occurred ?
Party and class dealignment in the UK has weakened traditional voting patterns, with class becoming less predictive of party support. Voters now make decisions based more on factors like age, education, and key issues, as seen in shifts like the Conservative gains in Labour’s “Red Wall” areas. Party loyalty has also declined. With labour also weakening ties to trade unions, a disillusionment with the party has been felt within the working class.
Are general elections determined by issue voting ?
General elections in the UK are increasingly influenced by issue voting, where voters prioritize specific issues like the economy, healthcare, Brexit, or immigration. While traditional factors like class and party loyalty still play a role, many voters now focus on key issues when deciding which party to support. This trend has become more prominent in recent years.
What is the significance of party campaigns in the determine the result of general elections ?
Party campaigns are vital in UK general elections, influencing public perception, communicating policies, and mobilizing voters. Effective campaigns can sway undecided voters and strengthen party loyalty, making them key to electoral success. Media coverage and debates also play significant roles in shaping voter opinions. Johnson’s ‘Get Brexit Done’ resonated with many voters with the process of Brexit seeming frustrating and tiresome to most.
How important is governing competency in determining the result of a general election?
Governing competency is vital in UK general elections, as voters evaluate the incumbent government’s performance in areas like the economy and public services. A competent government can inspire trust and support, while perceived incompetence can lead to electoral backlash. For example, the Conservative Party’s management during the COVID-19 pandemic influenced voter perceptions and affected their electoral outcomes.
What is the significance of party manifestos in a general election?
Party manifestos are crucial in UK general elections as they outline policies and priorities, informing voters about what to expect from a party. A clear manifesto can differentiate a party, attract undecided voters, and reinforce loyalty among supporters. They also hold parties accountable, allowing voters to evaluate their performance against promises. However, many voters do not read these in the decision for voting and rely on media.
How important is a party leader in a general election?
The party leader is crucial in UK general elections, often acting as the party’s public face. Voter perceptions of a leader’s competence and charisma can greatly influence outcomes. Strong leaders can inspire confidence and mobilize support, while weak leaders can hinder electoral prospects. For instance, Boris Johnson’s popularity in 2019 boosted Conservative support, while Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership negatively impacted Labour’s performance.
How important are different types of media in politics and how has that role changed?
Media is crucial in politics for disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and engaging voters. Traditional media, like newspapers and television, has been complemented by the rise of digital and social media, allowing for direct communication between politicians and the public. This shift has changed campaign strategies, with parties focusing more on digital outreach. However, it also presents challenges, such as misinformation and echo chambers, making media an even more powerful force in shaping political dynamics.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of opinion polls in UK politics ?
Advantages:
1. Public Insight: Polls offer a snapshot of voter opinions, helping parties gauge public sentiment.
2. Campaign Strategy: Data informs campaign strategies and messaging to target specific demographics.
3. Accountability: Polls can reflect public approval or disapproval of government actions.
4. Predictive Tool: They indicate potential election outcomes.
Disadvantages:
1. Sampling Errors: Polls can be biased if samples aren’t diverse enough.
2. Misinterpretation: Results may be misinterpreted, leading to overconfidence or bias.
3. Influence on Behaviour: Polls can create a bandwagon effect, swaying voter support.
4. Snapshot Limitation: They represent opinions at a specific moment, making them unreliable for future predictions.
Summarise the key features of the 1979 general election
- Economic Context: It occurred amid high inflation, rising unemployment, and public discontent with the Labour government led by James Callaghan.
- Conservative Victory: The Conservative Party, led by Margaret Thatcher, won decisively, gaining 43 seats for a total of 339, while Labour lost 63 seats, resulting in 269.
- Thatcher’s Leadership: Margaret Thatcher became the first female Prime Minister, promoting conservative economic policies and reducing trade union power.
- Vote Swing: There was a notable swing from Labour to Conservatives, with the latter gaining 5.2% of the vote while Labour’s share dropped by 3.5%.
Summarise the features of the 1997 general election.
- Landslide Victory: The Labour Party, led by Tony Blair, won a landslide victory, gaining 145 seats for a total of 418 and ending 18 years of Conservative rule, which fell to just 165 seats.
- New Labour: Blair’s “New Labour” brand emphasized modernization and centrist policies, appealing to a broad electorate.
- Voter Discontent: Public dissatisfaction with the Conservative government’s handling of the economy and scandals significantly influenced voter sentiment.
- Increased Turnout: Voter turnout was around 71%, reflecting heightened public interest.
- Media Influence: The election saw effective media use, particularly television and advertising, to convey Labour’s message.
Summarise the key features of the 2017 general election
- Snap Election: Prime Minister Theresa May called a snap election to strengthen her Brexit mandate, seeking to increase the Conservative majority.
- Hung Parliament: The Conservatives won 318 seats, losing their majority, while Labour, led by Jeremy Corbyn, gained 30 seats, reaching 262.
- Youth Engagement: Increased youth voter turnout, driven by concerns over education and social justice, benefited Labour.
- Brexit Focus: Brexit was a central issue, with the Conservatives promoting a strong exit deal and Labour advocating a “jobs-first” approach.
- Other Parties: The Liberal Democrats won only 12 seats, and the SNP lost ground, securing 35 seats.
- Campaign Strategies: Campaigns involved significant social media use and grassroots activism, with Labour’s manifesto focusing on public services resonating with many voters.
