What is 'British Politics'? Flashcards
What characteristics make up the British Political Tradition? - What is ‘British Politics’?
BPT characterised by Westminster model, elitist/hierarchical, representative democracy, strong and decisive govt being idealised (a rather conservative view).
How can British Politics be said to be ignorant of the sub-state nations it contains? - What is ‘British Politics’?
British Politics is Anglo-centric, staunchly unionist, based mostly around the sovereignty of a central Parliament in London, class-based (arguably - Pulzer, 1967).
How can British Politics be said to be more embracing of elements of sub-state nations and the political diversity Britain encompasses? - What is ‘British Politics’?
Westminster has devolved sovereignty to various devolved parliaments through steady change post-1997, class-based politics declined after Thatcherism and at start of Neo-Lib consensus, different parties govern each nation of the UK, people have multiple different identities that form their ‘Britishness’.
Describe Colley’s assessment of ‘British identity’ - What is ‘British Politics’?
Colley described British identity as not being a singular, clearly defined thing. She argued that people could ‘wear multiple hats’ as part of their overarching identity in Britain, and that multiple different characteristics fall under being part of a ‘British’ identity.
Describe Linda Colley’s 4 main aspects of ‘Britishness’, used in nation building - What is ‘British Politics’?
Colley believed that ‘Britishness’ was quintessentially contained within 4 main aspects: Empire, War, Protestantism and Monarchy.
