Is the theory of cleavages still relevant? Analysis of populist radical right support in Czechia and Slovakia
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| Year of publication | 2021 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | Many geographers, political scientists, and sociologists use the theory of cleavages by Lipset and Rokkan to explain the distribution of electoral support of political parties. However, this theory explains the emergence of political parties in Western Europe in the 19th century. Therefore, to adapt to political and social changes since the second half of the 20th century, it had to be modified. The biggest changes it had to face were the appearance of new political families, such as the populist radical right or the green parties, and establishment of a democratic regime in the post-socialist states of Central and Eastern Europe. The question is whether the theory of cleavages has adapted to these changes. To answer this question will be analysed electoral support of populist radical right parties in Czechia and Slovakia in the parliamentary elections between 2010 and 2020. Using multiple linear regression, the applicability of Lipset and Rokkan's original theory will be first verified. Subsequently, the applicability of the modified theory of cleavages will be verified. That should reflect the influence of new political families and the post-socialist environment. |
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