Article(print)1992

Concepts of Political Parties

In: Journal of theoretical politics, Volume 4, Issue 2, p. 143-159

Pomper, Gerald M

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Abstract

An examination of normative models of political parties & their relationship to democratic philosophy. Three dichotomous, analytical dimensions are developed: the parties' elite or mass focus, their collective or coalitional goals, & their instrumental or expressive mode. Eight abstract party concepts are derived from these dimensions, portraying the party, variously, as: governing caucus, cause advocate, ideological community, social movement, bureaucratic organization, rational team of office-seekers, urban machine, & personal coalition. In an analysis of democratic theory, parallel dimensions are developed: accessibility of leadership, voter goals, & the character of popular participation. It is shown that particular kinds of parties are associated with these different concepts of democracy & with particular forms of government. 2 Tables, 44 References. Adapted from the source document.

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