Political Parties and Partisanship

Understanding Parties in the U.S.

• Critical analysis of political party function:

  • Notion that parties influence electoral behavior in the U.S.

  • Historical context provided showcasing founders’ views on parties.

  • Voter partisanship trends, particularly high loyalty rates despite electoral dissatisfaction.

Theoretical Perspectives on Partisanship

1. Epiphenomenal Perspective

   • Voters prioritize policy issues over party loyalty.

   • Example bumper sticker: “Want a living wage? Vote Democrat.”

2. Social Identity Theory

   • Emotional and psychological connection to party affiliation.

   • Example bumper sticker: “Proud Democrat.”

3. Running Tally Theory

   • Evaluating party performance based on historical success.

   • Example bumper sticker: “Democrats clean up Republican messes since 1933.”

4. Heuristic Perspective

   • Voters use party affiliation as a shortcut for decision-making without specific issue deep dives.

   • Example bumper sticker: “Vote like you drive: D forward, R backward.”

Implications of Partisanship

• Discussion on implications of party affiliation on democratic processes and voting:

  • Complex relationships between policy positions, identity, and loyalty.

  • The need for political scientists to refrain from oversimplifying perspectives on partisanship.