The standard view of American political ideology says that politics is largely a clash between two worldviews that can be modeled on a political spectrum. On one end, we have the left, characterized by progressive values and a focus on social justice. On the other end, we have the right, known for its conservative beliefs and emphasis on individual freedoms. However, recent research suggests that this traditional linear model may not accurately capture the complexity of modern political ideologies.
Yanna Krupnikov probes the motivations of Americans who avoid politics — but often vote. She delves into the reasons behind their reluctance to engage with political issues, despite participating in the electoral process. This phenomenon highlights the disconnect between personal beliefs and political engagement, challenging our understanding of the left-right divide.
The theory takes the political spectrum and curves it into a horseshoe, with the middle of the shoe's curve representing centrist (or “moderate”) values. This conceptual shift allows for a more nuanced exploration of political ideologies, revealing the interconnectedness between seemingly opposite viewpoints. As Sahra Wagenknecht's brand of “left conservatism” upends German politics, it becomes clear that the rigid dichotomy between left and right is no longer sufficient to capture the diverse range of beliefs shaping the political landscape.