Functions of political parties

Question 1

State the functions of political parties

Answer 1

Representation
Participation
Elections
Government
Organisation
Education

Question 2

Functions of political parties: Representation

Answer 2

Represent views and beliefs of large sections of society and act in their interests

Question 3

Functions of political parties: Participation

Answer 3

Enable individuals to participate effectively in the political process, and to influence the decisions that affect their lives

Question 4

Functions of political parties: Elections

Answer 4

Offer the electorate choice in elections

Question 5

Functions of political parties: Government

Answer 5

Hold governments office and run the country

Question 6

Functions of political parties: Organisation

Answer 6

Organises and brings together a variety of demands into a coherent political programme

Question 7

Functions of political parties: Education

Answer 7

Parties educate and inform the general public

Question 8

What are the features of political parties? (that distinguish them from other groups)

Answer 8

Parties aim to become a governmnet by putting candidates up for election and mobalising support
Parties are organised bodies with a formal membership
Parties typically adopt a broad-issue focus, addressing major issues of government policy
To varying degrees, parties are united by shared political preferences and a shared ideological identity

Question 9

Features of left-wing ideologies

Answer 9

Desire to introduce change into the political system
Look to make society more equal and favour the group solution above the individual, therefore support state intervention and collectivism
Associated with welfare, economic intervention and wealth redistribution

Question 10

Features of right-wing ideologies

Answer 10

Emphasises widespread acceptance of the status quo and the need for stability in society
Seek to give individuals more freedom
Favour the individual to the group, favour the market and individualism
Support low taxes, limited welfare, free market economies