How Polarization Begets Polarization: Ideological Extremism in the US Congress

Extreme polarization in American politics is driven by political parties' discipline on their Congressional members and district candidates, endorsed by voters in competitive districts. This creates party delegations that are ideologically narrowly distributed, leading to feuding camps and a potential resolution through a new reform effort or an asymmetry in partisan constraints.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The polarization of American politics, particularly in the U.S. Congress, is a perplexing phenomenon that has emerged as one of the most significant political developments of our time. This book explores the interconnectedness of polarization in Congress and the electorate, forming a dynamic feedback loop driven by the discipline exerted by political parties on their members and candidates. This discipline is endorsed by voters in each congressional district, who must choose between extreme alternatives presented by the parties. The intensity of these alternatives is not limited to competitive districts but extends to lop-sided ones as well. Tight national party discipline leads to party delegations in Congress that are ideologically narrowly distributed, while district constituencies become increasingly polarized, fueled by activist efforts.

As parties strive to appeal to their respective bases rather than voters in the ideological center, the landscape of American politics undergoes a transformation. The emergence of clear party platforms, once seen as a desirable goal, has given way to rival factions within each party. The parties have become feuding camps, locked in intense competition for power and influence.

The question arises: what resolution can be found to this polarized state of affairs? Can a new reform effort replace the current squabble, or will an asymmetry develop in the partisan constraints, leading to the ascendancy of the center? Alternatively, could a new and over-riding issue generate a cross-cutting dimension, opening the door to a new politics? Only time will tell the answers to these questions.

In conclusion, the polarization of American politics is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires careful examination and analysis. This book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of this issue, providing insights into the dynamics of polarization and its implications for the future of American democracy. As we navigate the challenges posed by this polarized landscape, it is essential to remain open to new ideas and perspectives and to work towards finding solutions that promote greater unity and cooperation among all Americans.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197745236