Political Ideologies — Glossary

A Cold War belief that the fall of one country to communism would lead to the spread of communism in neighboring countries. It justified U.S. involvement in conflicts like Vietnam.

A Marxist concept describing how subordinate classes adopt beliefs that obscure their real interests and sustain domination.

The political and ideological barrier dividing Eastern and Western Europe from 1945 until the end of the Cold War, symbolizing Soviet influence in Eastern Europe.

The distribution of resources or favors by politicians to supporters in exchange for political support. It can undermine democratic fairness and accountability.

The growing ideological distance and division between political parties or groups within a society.

A political theory applying the concept of natural selection to societies, suggesting that stronger groups survive and dominate weaker ones, often used historically to justify inequality and imperialism.

A party official or elected leader who has a vote in selecting a party's presidential nominee, independent of primary or [Caucus](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/caucus) results. Common in some party systems like the US Democrats.

A term popularized by Churchill to describe the ideological and physical boundary dividing Europe into Soviet and Western spheres during the Cold War.

A party system dominated by two major political parties.

The percentage of eligible voters who participate in an election by casting a ballot.