Political Systems and Parties Flashcard

Front

What is a two-party system?

Back

An electoral system with two dominant parties that compete in national elections.

Answer explanation

A two-party system refers to an electoral system where two dominant parties compete in national elections, shaping political outcomes and governance. This distinguishes it from other systems that may involve multiple parties.

Front

Multiparty system

Back

A system in which multiple political parties have the capacity to gain control of government separately or in coalition.

Answer explanation

A multiparty system allows multiple political parties to gain control of government, either separately or through coalitions, distinguishing it from systems with fewer parties or single-party dominance.

Front

Single-party system

Back

An authoritarian system in which parties besides the single dominant party are banned or disallowed.

Answer explanation

A single-party system is characterized by the dominance of one political party, where other parties are banned or disallowed, making it an authoritarian system. This aligns with the correct choice.

Front

What is the goal of political parties?

Back

Elect people to office and gain control of government.

Answer explanation

The primary goal of political parties is to elect people to office and gain control of government, allowing them to implement their policies and influence governance.

Front

How do parties facilitate collective action?

Back

Parties make it easier for voters to form groups that will vote in certain ways.

Answer explanation

Parties facilitate collective action by organizing voters into groups, making it easier for them to coordinate their voting behavior. This helps align interests and mobilize support for specific candidates or policies.

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How do parties facilitate policy-making?

Back

Parties make it easier for elected officials to create and collaborate on legislation and policies.

Answer explanation

Parties streamline the policy-making process by enabling elected officials to work together more effectively on legislation and policies, fostering collaboration and consensus-building.

Front

What is a primary?

Back

A ballot vote in which citizens select a party's nominee for the general election.

Answer explanation

A primary is a ballot vote where citizens choose a party's nominee for the general election, distinguishing it from other definitions related to color, education, or government.

Front

What is a general election?

Back

An election held to choose which candidate will hold office.

Answer explanation

A general election is specifically an election held to choose which candidate will hold office, distinguishing it from votes of confidence, referendums, or plebiscites that address different issues.

Front

What is a caucus?

Back

A meeting of local party members to choose party officials or candidates for public office and to decide the platform.

Answer explanation

A caucus is a meeting where local party members gather to select party officials or candidates for public office and to establish the party's platform, making it a key part of the political process.

Front

What is a political scale?

Back

A tool that measures ideas and how they change (Politics = ideas, Scale = measure).

Answer explanation

A political scale is primarily a tool that measures ideas and how they evolve over time, reflecting the dynamic nature of political thought. This aligns with the definition that connects politics to ideas and measurement.