Political Parties Quiz

Key Components of a Political Party

• A political party must have three key components: a formal organization, a set of policy proposals, and a body of loyal supporters.
• These components are essential for a party to effectively compete in elections and implement its policies.

Classification of Political Parties

• Maurice Duverger classified political parties into two categories in 1951: cadre parties (elitist parties) and mass parties.
• Cadre parties are characterized by a small group of leaders and a limited membership.
• Mass parties, on the other hand, have a large membership and a broader base of support.

Primary Purpose of a Political Party

• The primary purpose of a political party in a democratic country is to represent the interests of its members and supporters in the government.
• Parties do this by nominating candidates for public office and advocating for policies that benefit their constituents.

Elitist Parties

• Elitist parties, also known as cadre parties, are characterized by a small group of leaders who make decisions without consulting the broader membership.
• These parties tend to have a limited membership and are often dominated by a single leader or a small group of elites.

Importance of Political Parties in a Democracy

• The presence of political parties is essential for a functioning democracy because they provide a mechanism for citizens to participate in the political process.
• Parties aggregate and articulate the interests of different groups, allowing citizens to make informed choices at the ballot box.