The Political Spectrum

How Do We Categorize

Political Opinion?

The political spectrum is the standard way

we categorize a person’s or party’s

political opinion.

Originating with revolutionary France, the

spectrum puts all political opinions on a

continuum, from right to left.

Benefits of the Spectrum

Makes it easy to categorize and describe a

person’s political position.

Simplifies political debate.

Makes comparisons between political

parties easier

The Extremes

Extreme left = communism

Government provides most services for its people

Focus on equality

Example – USSR, China, Cuba

Extreme right = fascism

Enforces rules, laws and norms with extreme force.

People live to serve the interests of the state.

Private ownership and property

Example – WWII Germany

The spectrum is anchored and defined by its

extreme ends.

The Right Side

Conservative policies

Smaller, decentralized government.

Focus on values, traditional morals.

Religion is often highlighted.

Responsibility on the individual.

Property rights are vital.

Law and order.

The Left Side

Large, activist government.

Non-traditional values.

Focus on creating equality and helping the

oppressed or under privileged.

Collective responsibility.

Equal opportunity.

Limited property rights.

Problems with the Spectrum

Overly simplistic.

Not everyone’s opinion on all issues will fit

within the same space on the spectrum.

Tendency to move towards the centre.

Is the spectrum really a loop? Do the

extremes meet?

Fails to deal with social and economic

factors simultaneously