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

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1017/S0008423921000408

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