Wearing Flashcards
What is the main argument of Joseph Wearing’s essay, “Finding Our Parties’ Roots”?
Wearing argues that Canadian political parties, particularly the Conservatives, Liberals, and NDP, fit the catchall model, which focuses on attracting broad support from various societal groups rather than adhering strictly to an ideology.
What is a “catchall” party model?
A catchall party model is one in which political parties attempt to appeal to a wide range of voters from different social, economic, and ideological backgrounds, rather than being based on a specific ideology or set of issues.
Which Canadian political parties are discussed in Wearing’s analysis as fitting the catchall model?
The Conservative Party, the Liberal Party, and the New Democratic Party (NDP).
What does Wearing suggest about the ideological flexibility of Canadian political parties?
Wearing argues that Canadian political parties, while originally tied to specific ideologies, have evolved to adopt a more flexible, catchall approach. This shift has allowed them to appeal to a broad range of voters from different socioeconomic and regional backgrounds, making them more pragmatic in their political strategies.
How does Wearing contrast Canadian political parties with ideologically rigid parties?
Wearing contrasts Canadian parties with ideologically rigid ones by highlighting that Canadian parties are more opportunistic and responsive to changing public demands. They focus less on a fixed ideological stance and more on forming coalitions and adapting to the political landscape.
According to Wearing, how have the Liberal and Conservative parties maintained their dominance in Canada?
Wearing explains that the Liberal and Conservative parties have maintained dominance by appealing to a wide variety of social groups. They have been able to adjust their platforms over time to accommodate new political realities, thus ensuring broader support across Canada’s diverse population.
What role does the NDP’s evolving platform play in Wearing’s argument about party dynamics?
Wearing suggests that while the NDP started with a clear ideological foundation rooted in working-class interests and socialism, it too has adapted by incorporating elements of the catchall model. This evolution has allowed the NDP to broaden its appeal and engage with a wider demographic, though its core focus on social justice remains central.
How does Wearing’s discussion of Canadian political parties challenge traditional party theory?
It challenges traditional party theory by demonstrating that Canadian parties do not strictly adhere to an ideological framework. Instead, they often align with the catchall party model, which emphasizes pragmatic coalition-building and broad electoral appeal over rigid ideological purity.
In what way does the catchall model affect voter behavior in Canada?
Wearing suggests that the catchall model influences voter behavior by encouraging Canadians to align with parties that represent a broad set of interests rather than narrow ideological positions. This model fosters a more centrist and pragmatic approach to voting, as voters seek parties that address a wide range of issues rather than ideological extremes.
