Question

Which of the following is a benefit of political partisanship? a. It eliminates third party interference. b. It divides the electorate and forces voters to take a stand. c. It exposes the hypocrisy of the opposing party. d. It discourages excessive voting. e. It provides a framework to translate broad values and beliefs into preferences for issue positions and political candidates.

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is e.

Explanation:

Political scientist Norberto Bobbio points out how political parties were born out of the need to aggregate very broad and different interests into more easily identifiable political positions. In the age of the ancient absolutist regimes, differences were squashed by the state, which tried to create a single, homogenous entity within its borders. On the other hand, the liberal states born out of the revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries were characterized by rejecting that uniformity, and embracing diversity and plurality. However, this diversity meant that values and beliefs were very diffuse and dispersed. Political parties aggregated these different values and beliefs and social demands into political positions, and by trying to conquer state power, parties aim carry on political projects which answer these social demands. Thus, a benefit of political partisanship, is to be able to translate our ideas and beliefs into a political position, which if succesful, can carry on a political project that will answer our particular demands.