60 likes | 80 Views
Political Parties. & What They Do. I. What is a Political Party?. A group of persons joined on the basis of common principles. A group of persons who seek to control government through the winning of elections and the holding of public office.
E N D
Political Parties & What They Do
I. What is a Political Party? • A group of persons joined on the basis of common principles. • A group of persons who seek to control government through the winning of elections and the holding of public office. • Our Republican and Democratic political parties are election-oriented, not issue-oriented. Is that a bad thing?
Liberal Believes that government must actively change economic, political, and ideological policies thought to be unfair Radical Favors extreme change to create an altered or new social system Conservative Seeks to keep in place the economic, political, and social structures of society. Reactionary Favors extreme change to restore society to an earlier, more conservative state. The Political Spectrum Democrat Republican Left Center Right Radical Conservative Reactionary Liberal Moderate
II. What do Political Parties do? • Political parties are a vital link between the people and their government • Political Parties blunt conflict • Encourage compromise among different interests and groups • Limit the effect of extremists at both ends of the spectrum
III. The Five Functions of Political Parties • Nominating Candidates • Parties select the best candidates, then present them to the voters • Parties also help their candidates win elections. • Informing and Activating Supporters • Inspire voters to support particular issues
The Five Functions of Political Parties (cont.) • “Bonding Agent” • Ensure the good performance of its candidates and officeholders • Select candidates that are qualified • Governing • Most government officials are chosen on the basis of partisanship – strong support of the political party and its policy. • Watchdog • Ensure the good conduct of the public’s business both within and outside of government.