POLITICAL CULTURE
AND
POLITICAL IDENTITY
DEFINITION
POLITICAL CULTURE POLITICAL IDENTITY
Refers to the set of beliefs, values, norms, and attitudes It refers to the sense of belonging, allegiance, or
that shape the political behavior and institutions within affiliation that individuals feel towards a particular
a particular society or group. political ideology, party, movement, or group.
It encompasses the shared understandings and Is more personal and individualized. can be based on
expectations regarding government, citizenship, various factors, including ideology, ethnicity, religion,
authority, and the role of individuals within the political socioeconomic status, nationality, or any combination
system. thereof.
It influences how people perceive and participate in It shapes individuals' perceptions, preferences, and
politics, as well as how they interpret and respond to behaviors in political contexts, influencing their voting
government actions and policies. Political culture can decisions, policy preferences, and participation in
vary significantly across different regions, countries, or political activities.
even subgroups within a society.
Political identity is deeply ingrained and can
be a significant factor in shaping social and
political dynamics, as individuals may align
themselves with like-minded individuals or
groups and oppose those with different
identities.
Political Culture encompasses the broader societal
context within which politics operates, while
Political Identity focuses more on individuals'
personal affiliations and allegiances within that
context. Both concepts play crucial roles in shaping
political systems, behaviors, and outcomes.
SIMILARITIES
Both political culture and political identity are shaped
through socialization processes. Individuals develop their
political culture and identity through interactions with
FORMATION THROUGH SOCIALIZATION family, peers, education systems, media, and other
social institutions. These influences contribute to the
formation of shared values, beliefs, and affiliations within
a society.
Both political culture and political identity influence
individuals' political behavior. They affect how people
perceive political issues, make decisions, and engage in
INFLUENCE ON POLITICAL BEHAVIOR political activities such as voting, activism, or
participation in political organizations. Individuals often
act in accordance with their political culture and
identity, aligning themselves with like-minded groups or
candidates.
SIMILARITIES
Political culture and political identity can shape the functioning
and structure of political institutions. The dominant political
culture within a society may influence the design of institutions,
IMPACT ON POLITICAL the distribution of power, and the norms and practices governing
INSTITUTIONS political processes. Similarly, the collective political identities of
citizens can impact the composition and behavior of political
parties, interest groups, and other political actors.
Both political culture and political identity play roles in political
ROLE IN POLITICAL mobilization. Political leaders, parties, or movements often
appeal to shared cultural values or identities to mobilize support
MOBILIZATION
for their agendas. Individuals may be more likely to participate in
political activities when they feel a strong sense of cultural or
identity-based connection to a cause or group.
SIMILARITIES
Both concepts are dynamic and subject to change over
time. Political culture can evolve in response to social,
economic, and political developments, while political
DYNAMIC AND EVOLVING identities may shift or adapt in response to changing
circumstances or experiences. Additionally, interactions
between political culture and identity can shape each
other, as individuals' identities contribute to the formation
and evolution of broader cultural norms and vice versa..
While political culture and political
identity are distinct concepts, they are
interconnected and mutually
reinforcing, shaping individuals'
attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions
within political contexts.
DIFFERENCES
POLITICAL CULTURE: Political culture refers to the broader
set of shared beliefs, values, norms, and attitudes that
shape the political behavior and institutions within a
society or group. It encompasses the collective
understandings and expectations regarding
government, citizenship, authority, and the role of
AS TO SCOPE AND FOCUS individuals within the political system.
POLITICAL IDENTITY: Political identity is more individualized
and personal. It refers to the sense of belonging,
allegiance, or affiliation that individuals feel towards a
particular political ideology, party, movement, or group.
It is based on factors such as ideology, ethnicity, religion,
socioeconomic status, or nationality.
DIFFERENCES
POLITICAL CULTURE: Political culture is collective and
shared among members of a society or group. It is
formed through socialization processes and reflects
the common understandings and values within a
larger community.
COLLECTIVE VS. INDIVIDUAL
POLITICAL IDENTITY: Political identity is individualized
and pertains to the specific affiliations and
allegiances of each person. While individuals may
share similar political identities with others, these
identities are personal and may vary significantly
among members of the same society.
DIFFERENCES
POLITICAL CULTURE: Political culture is shaped by
historical experiences, socialization processes, and
interactions among members of a society over time. It
influences how people perceive and participate in
politics, as well as how they interpret and respond to
government actions and policies.
AS TO FORMATION AND
INFLUENCE POLITICAL IDENTITY: Political identity is influenced by
various factors, including upbringing, personal
experiences, socioeconomic status, and exposure to
political ideologies or movements. It shapes
individuals' perceptions, preferences, and behaviors in
political contexts, guiding their voting decisions, policy
preferences, and participation in political activities.
DIFFERENCES
POLITICAL CULTURE: Political culture tends to be
relatively stable and enduring over time, reflecting
deep-seated beliefs and values within a society.
While it can evolve in response to social, economic,
and political changes, such changes often occur
gradually.
AS TO DURABILITY AND
FLEXIBILITY POLITICAL IDENTITY: Political identity can be more
fluid and subject to change based on individual
experiences, shifting social dynamics, or changes in
political contexts. Individuals may modify or adjust
their political identities in response to new
information, changing circumstances, or evolving
political landscapes.
While political culture and political identity are
interconnected aspects of political life, they differ in their
scope, focus, collective vs. individual nature, formation
processes, and flexibility over time.
Political culture represents the broader societal context
within which politics operates, while political identity
pertains to individuals' personal affiliations and
allegiances within that context.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL CULTURE FEATURE
(Refers to the attitudes, beliefs, values, and
norms that shape political behavior and
institutions within a society)
Democracy A belief in the importance of democratic principles such as free and
fair elections, political participation, and the rule of law.
Patriotism A strong sense of loyalty and attachment to one's country,
manifested through symbols like flags and anthems.
Civic Duty A belief in the responsibility of citizens to participate in the political
process, such as voting, serving on juries, and engaging in community
activities.
Individualism A focus on personal freedom, autonomy, and self-reliance, and
sometimes associated with limited government intervention in
personal affairs.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL CULTURE FEATURE
(Refers to the attitudes, beliefs, values, and
norms that shape political behavior and
institutions within a society)
An emphasis on the importance of community and collective action
Collectivism in achieving social and political goals. It is associated with more
interventionist government policies.
Recognition and acceptance of diversity in society, including diverse
Pluralism viewpoints, interests, and identities, as well as mechanisms for
accommodating and reconciling these differences.
Elitism A belief in the existence of a privileged elite or ruling class that wields
disproportionate influence over political decisions and outcomes.
A political approach that appeals to the interests and concerns of
Populism ordinary people. Characterized by anti-elitism, direct democracy,
and opposition to established power structures.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL CULTURE FEATURE
(Refers to the attitudes, beliefs, values, and
norms that shape political behavior and
institutions within a society)
A strong sense of national identity and pride, accompanied by the
Nationalism belief in the superiority or exceptionalism of one's own nation.
The recognition and celebration of cultural diversity within a society,
Multiculturalism accompanied by policies aimed at promoting inclusivity and equal
treatment for all cultural groups.
The separation of religion from government and public institutions,
Secularism coupled by the belief in the importance of individual rights and
freedoms in matters of faith and belief.
A political system characterized by strong central authority, limited
Authoritarianism political pluralism, and restrictions on individual freedoms and civil
liberties.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL CULTURE FEATURE
(Refers to the attitudes, beliefs, values, and
norms that shape political behavior and
institutions within a society)
A political ideology emphasizing the protection of individual rights and
Liberalism freedoms, limited government intervention in the economy, and the rule
of law.
Conservatism A political ideology favoring traditional values, institutions, and social
hierarchies, with skepticism towards rapid social change and
government intervention.
A political and economic system advocating for collective ownership
Socialism and control of the means of production, distribution, and exchange,
with the aim of reducing socioeconomic inequality.
An economic system characterized by private ownership of the means
Capitalism of production, free markets, and the pursuit of profit, with individual
freedoms and limited government regulation.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL CULTURE FEATURE
(Refers to the attitudes, beliefs, values, and
norms that shape political behavior and
institutions within a society)
A political and social movement advocating for the protection of the
Environmentalism natural environment and sustainable development based on the belief
in the interconnectedness of human societies and the natural world.
A political and social movement advocating for gender equality and
Feminism the empowerment of women, focusing on issues such as reproductive
rights, equal pay, and representation in politics and society.
A belief in the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings, with a
Humanitarianism commitment to promoting peace, social justice, and the alleviation of
suffering.
An ideology emphasizing international cooperation,
Globalism interconnectedness, and the importance of addressing global
challenges through collective action and institutions.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL IDENTITY FEATURE
(Refers to the ways in which individuals align
themselves with particular political beliefs,
ideologies, parties, or movements)
Individuals who align with progressive values such as social justice,
Liberal equality, and government intervention to address social and
economic issues.
Conservative Individuals who adhere to traditional values, limited government
intervention, and free-market principles.
Progressive Those who advocate for social and political reform, emphasizing
issues such as civil rights, environmental protection, and economic
equality.
Individuals who adopt moderate positions, seeking to balance
Centrist competing interests and find pragmatic solutions to political issues.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL IDENTITY FEATURE
(Refers to the ways in which individuals align
themselves with particular political beliefs,
ideologies, parties, or movements)
People who advocate for collective ownership and control of the
Socialist means of production, distribution, and exchange, aiming to address
socioeconomic inequality.
Capitalist Those who support a market-based economic system characterized by
private ownership and free enterprise.
Individuals who advocate for gender equality and the empowerment
Feminist of women, addressing issues such as reproductive rights, equal pay,
and representation.
Nationalist People who prioritize the interests and sovereignty of their nation,
emphasizing cultural identity, immigration control, and national security.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL IDENTITY FEATURE
(Refers to the ways in which individuals
align themselves with particular political
beliefs, ideologies, parties, or movements)
Individuals who prioritize environmental protection and sustainability,
Environmental Activist advocating for policies to address climate change, conservation, and
pollution.
Anarchist Those who reject hierarchical systems of authority and advocate for
decentralized forms of governance and direct democracy.
Individuals who appeal to the interests and concerns of ordinary people,
Populist criticizing elite or establishment institutions and advocating for direct
democracy.
GlobalisT People who prioritize international cooperation and interconnectedness,
advocating for multilateral agreements and institutions to address global
challenges.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL IDENTITY FEATURE
(Refers to the ways in which individuals align
themselves with particular political beliefs,
ideologies, parties, or movements)
Humanitarian Those who prioritize human welfare and advocate for the alleviation of
suffering, through aid, development, and human rights initiatives.
Individuals who align with conservative values based on religious beliefs,
Religious Conservative advocating for policies that reflect those values on issues such as
abortion, marriage, and education.
People who advocate for the separation of religion from government
Secularist and public institutions, emphasizing the importance of individual rights
and freedoms in matters of faith and belief.
Libertarian Those who prioritize individual liberty and limited government
intervention in both social and economic affairs.
EXAMPLES OF
POLITICAL IDENTITY FEATURE
(Refers to the ways in which individuals align
themselves with particular political beliefs,
ideologies, parties, or movements)
Protester/Activist Individuals who engage in political action and advocacy to promote
specific causes or address perceived injustices.
Those who do not strongly identify with any particular political party or
Independent ideology, preferring to evaluate each issue on its own merits.
Individuals who prioritize issues of race, gender, sexuality, and other
Identity Politics Advocate aspects of identity in political discourse and policymaking, often seeking
to address systemic inequalities.
Conservative Democrat/Liberal Individuals who identify with a political party traditionally associated with
Republican one ideology but hold views more commonly associated with the
opposing ideology.
