Voting Behaviour and the Media Flashcards
What is class dealignment?
The decline in the correlation between social class and party voting.
What percentage of working-class voters supported Brexit in 2016?
Around 62%, compared to 46% of middle-class voters.
How does education now affect voting?
Graduates tend to vote Labour, while those with lower qualifications often vote Conservative.
Why is age a strong predictor of voting behaviour?
Older people tend to vote Conservative and turn out in higher numbers than younger voters.
What does valence refer to in voting?
A party’s perceived competence or trustworthiness in handling major issues.
What is governing competence?
The idea that a government can win or lose an election based on its performance in office.
Why was the 2019 election considered a ‘Brexit election’?
Brexit was the dominant issue, with Conservatives using slogans like “Get Brexit Done” to appeal to voters.
What is the role of manifestos in campaigns?
They set out parties’ policy plans and help voters make informed decisions.
What’s an example of a campaign misstep that didn’t impact election results?
Boris Johnson hiding in a fridge in 2019; despite this, the Conservatives won a large majority.
How did tactical voting impact the 2010 election?
Up to 10% voted tactically, especially Lib Dem supporters trying to keep out Conservative or Labour candidates.
What are the main factors influencing voting behaviour?
Social class, party identification, age, gender, ethnicity, region, and issues.
What is partisan dealignment?
The decline in strong party loyalty among voters.
How has class voting changed in the UK?
Class-based voting has declined; many working-class voters now support the Conservatives, and middle-class voters support Labour.
What is rational choice theory?
The idea that voters make decisions based on policies, leadership, and performance rather than party loyalty.
What is issue voting?
When voters prioritize specific issues (like the economy or NHS) over party or class loyalties.
How does age affect voting patterns?
Older voters tend to vote Conservative, while younger voters lean towards Labour or smaller progressive parties.
What role does the media play in elections?
It informs the public, sets agendas, frames issues, and can influence public perception and voting behaviour.
What is the impact of newspapers in UK elections?
Newspapers often support specific parties and can shape political narratives, although their influence is debated.
How did social media influence the 2017 and 2019 UK elections?
It was heavily used by parties for targeted messaging and was especially effective with younger voters.
What is the opinion on televised debates in elections?
They can sway public opinion and are seen as increasingly important, especially in leadership evaluations.
