Rational, Cultural, and Structural Approaches: Democracy and Participation in the UK vs. US (Edexcel A-Level Politics): Flashcards

Individuals act in self-interest, making calculated decisions

Rational voters may abstain as vote unlikely to influence result

Both popular and Electoral College votes determine presidential elections

Higher motivation; vote has greater chance to influence outcome

Rational actors invest heavily in lobbying for favourable policies

Traditions, values, norms shape political behaviour & institutions

Long history of parliamentary democracy and party loyalty

Working-class Labour; middle/upper-class Conservative tradition

Individualism, freedom, and the 'American Dream'

High political engagement among strong party identifiers

Shapes opinion; impartiality & public service focus

Fragmented & partisan; reinforces identities, creates echo chambers

Institutional frameworks & legal structures shape behaviour

Centralizes power in PM & ruling party hands

Multiple layers of govt (federal, state, local) for participation