Elections and Voting Behaviour- Topic 2 Cleavages

Political Cleavage= A political divide based on ones social, economic, cultural background/group.

A division in society based on ones religion, race, ethnicity .

Cleavage voting theory= A voting theory that states ones voting behaviour/ choice is based on social background cleavages such as race, ethnicity religion, economic situations

For instance Aristocrats may vote  for Conservatives whereas working class will often vote for Labour party.

These cleavages are heavily influenced by personal values beliefs and preferences (inspired by social unit and society in general). 

Also historical events.

Political parties will target voters based of these cleavages 

For instance Labour may rally more in areas of London where more w/c population or from ethnic diverse backgrounds.

Recently, however there has been a dealignment in society.

Dealignment = Breakdown/ erosion of links between traditional cleavages and identity and voting behaviour.

Odds ratio= Calculation…