22.2.3 Rational, Cultural, and Structural Approaches: UK vs. US Constitution

Using Rational, Cultural, and Structural Approaches to Compare the UK and US Constitutions

Rational Approach

The rational approach focuses on individuals and their actions within political systems, often based on self-interest. When comparing the UK and US Constitutions:

• US Constitution: Individuals (e.g., politicians, voters) may act in self-interest to protect their state's rights or federal powers. The Constitution's checks and balances reflect this, aiming to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
• UK Constitution: In the UK, the fusion of powers and parliamentary sovereignty allows MPs and government ministers to pursue their goals more directly, often leading to a more centralized decision-making process. Self-interest plays out differently due to the lack of codified constraints.

Cultural Approach

The cultural approach examines the shared beliefs, values, and practices within a society that influence political behavior.

• US Constitution: The American political culture places a high value on individual rights, federalism, and the separation of powers. These cultural elements are deeply embedded in the US Constitution and influence how it operates.
• UK Constitution: The UK's political culture emphasizes tradition, parliamentary sovereignty, and the rule of law. This has led to an uncodified constitution that evolves over time, reflecting the UK's historical and cultural development.

Structural Approach

The structural approach looks at the broader social, economic, legal, and political structures that shape a society.

• US Constitution: The federal structure of the US, with its division of powers between federal and state governments, is a key element of the Constitution. This structure is designed to balance power and protect against tyranny.
• UK Constitution: The UK's structure is more centralized, with power concentrated in Parliament. The system of devolution is a relatively recent development and remains subject to parliamentary control. The structure reflects the UK's historical evolution from monarchy to parliamentary democracy.