Realignment Theory and British Party Development: A Critique
- 1 June 1982
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Political Studies
- Vol. 30 (2) , 207-220
- https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9248.1982.tb00533.x
Abstract
This article examines the applicability of critical election theory to British party development under the Third Reform Act. Contrary to claims by several authors, the general elections of 1886 and 1906 showed none of the features associated with critical realignments—high rates of participation, electoral instability, durable changes in the social basis of party support. The realignment model, which grew out of distinctive features of the American polity, does not seem appropriate in the British system.Keywords
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