A new conceptualization of the political left and right: One dimension, multiple domains
Publication Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
6-2021
Abstract
Scholars of the political left-right divide often see equality as the core issue of contention, with the left seeking greater equality than the right. Though partially agreeing with this consensus, I propose a modified left-right conceptualization that offers three novel contributions. First, while accepting the idea of a single fundamental dimension underlying conflict in global politics, I argue the key issue is not necessarily equality but rather the diffusion or concentration of power within and across nations, communities and individuals. Second, given the inescapable complexity of politics, I argue in favour of distinguishing between those who seek to de-concentrate power and broaden inclusion (the left) from those advocating for a concentration of power (the right) in specific issue domains. Third, I illustrate the utility of this “one dimension, multiple domains” theoretical framework through a comparative analysis of eight contemporary political parties across the domains of economic, foreign and social policy.
Keywords
ideology, left-right spectrum, political left, political right, power
Discipline
Political Theory
Research Areas
Political Science
Publication
Canadian Journal of Political Science
Volume
54
Issue
3
First Page
534
Last Page
554
ISSN
0008-4239
Identifier
10.1017/S0008423921000408
Publisher
Canadian Political Science Association
Citation
JOSHI, Devin K..(2021). A new conceptualization of the political left and right: One dimension, multiple domains. Canadian Journal of Political Science, 54(3), 534-554.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/soss_research/3494
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1017/S0008423921000408