Political Ideologies&

The Left-Right Spectrum

The Political Spectrum III

Totalitarianism Totalitarian forms of government are found at the extreme ends of the political spectrum on both the right and the left.

The state exercises total control in this form of government.

In a totalitarian regime the individual exists to serve the state.

Democracy Direct democracy, where all citizens participate in government, originated with the ancient Greeks.

In Canada, today, we practice indirect democracy through elected representatives.

In a democracy the state exists to serve the citizen.

The Political Spectrum V - The Left Wing

Communism- Karl Marx and Frederich Engels wrote the Communist Manifesto- Proletariat (workers) would eventually overthrow the bourgeoisie (wealthy class) in a violent revolution- Complete economic equality- People work together for the common good- People are naturally good, so we want success for all“From each according to his ability, to each according to his need.”

Left-Wing- Supports change to improve the welfare of all citizens- Governments should play a larger role in our lives (ex. providing social services)- important to protect the rights of all citizens fairly and equally

Socialism- Higher taxes, more spending- Some Crown-corporations (ie. Canada Post)- More government help to the poor (welfare, pensions, child care)- Public health care and education- Supports unions and working class- More environmental protection- Progressive with social / moral issues

The Political Spectrum VII - Centre to Right Wing

Centre- Tradition is important, but change must be supported if most people want it- Government should only step in to improve the lives of citizens- Law and order are important to encourage and protect the rights of individuals

Liberalism- Government should provide services for citizens to improve minimum standard of living- Balances between social freedoms and protecting civil liberties- Canada is generally liberal country

Right-Wing- Tradition is important, and change should be treated with caution- Government should play a small role, relying on private businesses to ensure the needs of citizens are met- Law and order are important to protect society and its traditions

ConservatismTwo kinds of conservatism: Social Conservatism –preserve traditional values-Traditional crime/punishment definitions-Traditional cultural / religious definitions-Larger military, more police (to protect you!)-Less government transparency; you sacrifice some rights for your protection and the efficiency of government

Fiscal Conservatism – low taxes and government debt-Government should have little influence on business (“laissez-faire” = leave it alone)- Business should provide services for citizens- Privatized health care, education- Tougher immigration laws- Low corporate tax rate- Do not believe in income equality; you deserve what you work for

Fascism- National pride and loyalty more important than the individual (nationalism)- Strong military (militarism)- Government controls all aspects of life- Enforces traditions and racial purity- Demands loyalty to a single leader and single culture