SS 11

Learning Outcome Demonstrate an Understanding of the Political Spectrum This is what you need to know!

What is the political spectrum? The Political Spectrum is a way of modelling different political positions visually. Most political spectrums have a left and right axis, but many others are more sophisticated.

Left vs. Right (Mind-Map) Take a look at the handout that you have been given. Although, this is an American model, it will help you understand the political spectrum. Take note of five characteristics that interest you from the Left or right and note of their counterpart from the other side. (Be prepared to report out)

A traditional left to right Political Spectrum: Copy this into your notebook.

Every person is involved in the political spectrum, even you!

Politicians are always dealing with controversy and diverse opinions So are you!

A Politicians Controversy Environment vs. Jobs (Left) (Right)

Left vs. Right

History: French Revolution The political spectrum terms “left wing” and “right wing” began during the French Revolution in the French Assembly. The Left supported The Revolution and Change The Right supported the King and Tradition

The Left Wing The Left Wing –Any person or party who is described as “Left” is in favour of social change and equality for all. Descriptive Term: socialist or liberal. The People

The Centre The Centre position on the spectrum tries to keep a balance between left and right..

The Right Wing The Right Wing – Any person or party who is described as right wing is in support of tradition (keeping things the way they were) and expect their to be a social strata (eg. Rich and poor) Descriptive terms: conservative The Individual

Where do you fall?

What is your opinion? Vancouver 2010 Olympics

If you thought the Olympics was a waste of money, which could have been spent elsewhere, that is a left wing point of view.

I f you thought the Olympics were a good opportunity to show British Columbia off to the world, and a good business opportunity, that is a right wing point of view.

What is your opinion? The Death Penalty (Capital Punishment) Discuss your point of view with a partner

If you fully support the death penalty, that is a right wing point of view If you oppose the death penalty, that is leftwing point of view

What is your opinion? Cell Phones in the Classroom

If you support the banning of cell phones in the classroom, that is a right wing opinion.

If you support the use of cell phones in the classroom, that is a left wing opinion.

What is your opinion? The War in Afghanistan

If you support the war, that is a right wing point of view HAWK

DOVE If you would like to see an end to war, that is a left wing point of view

Political Parties In Canada when we have elections, there are a number of political parties to choose from All of these parties fall somewhere on the Political Spectrum

Political Parties: Left Wing Gilles Duceppe BQ Leader *Former leader Jack Layton NDP Leader* *Former leader.. Elizabeth May Green Party Leader

Political Parties: Centre Michael Ignatieff Liberal Party Leader President Obama Democratic Party (USA) *USA would view Democrats as Left vs. Republican Right

Political Parties: Right Wing Stephen Harper Conservative Party Leader Current Prime Minister of Canada G.W. Bush (Ex-American President) Republican Party (USA)

The Extremes Fascism: Extreme RightCommunism: Extreme Left

Political Spectrum: Alternate Form  XKZQ XKZQ Take note of the following terms: Anarchy Oligarchy Democracy Dictatorship/Monarchy Republic