Comparative Approaches (Edexcel A Level Politics): Flashcards
Exam code: 9PL0
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Define comparative theories.
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Cards in this collection (12)
Define comparative theories.
Comparative theories help to explain the similarities and differences between two countries.
Which three theoretical approaches are needed for A-level study?
The three theoretical approaches needed for A-level study are rational, cultural and structural theories.
Define rational theory.
Rational theory explains that political outcomes can be understood in terms of individual actors making calculated choices to maximise their self-interest.
True or False?
For a single difference between two countries, you can say that one country acts rationally while the other acts culturally.
False.
A comparative theory can only be applied to explain the same difference or similarity, so mixing theories in this way is a misuse of them.
Define cultural theory.
Cultural theory explains that political outcomes can be understood by focusing on the shared beliefs, traditions, and values within societies.
According to cultural theory, why might a focus on state politics be stronger in the US than in the UK?
Cultural theory holds that the US federal system is rooted in a strong belief in state autonomy, whereas UK devolution is much younger (the Scottish and Welsh Parliaments were created in 1997), so state politics may matter more in the US.
Define structural theory.
Structural theory explains that political outcomes can be understood by focusing on the institutional arrangements, legal frameworks, and political structures that constrain actors.
Rational theory explains why lobbying groups in the US may have more influence than in the UK, as they help to fund incredibly expensive campaigns.
Rational theory explains why lobbying groups in the US may have more influence than in the UK, as they help to fund incredibly expensive election campaigns.
According to structural theory, why can US courts overturn state and federal law when UK courts cannot?
Structural theory holds that institutional constraints differ, so US courts can overturn state and federal law whereas UK courts cannot overturn primary legislation, as illustrated by Dobbs v Jackson (2022).
True or False?
Cultural theory attributes the UK Supreme Court's weaker power to a culture of parliamentary sovereignty.
True.
Cultural theory holds that the UK Supreme Court reflects a culture of parliamentary sovereignty, unlike the US culture of judicial review, and it is relatively new, having opened in 2009.
Structural theory explains the difference between federalism and devolution: US federalism is enforced by the Constitution, whereas UK devolution is only a legal construct that is not constitutionally .
Structural theory explains the difference between federalism and devolution: US federalism is enforced by the Constitution, whereas UK devolution is only a legal construct that is not constitutionally entrenched.
Can a single difference or similarity be explained by more than one theory?
Yes, a difference or similarity may be explained by more than one theory, and the student should select the one that best explains why it exists.
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