Lesson 4

Lesson 4

UNDERSTANDING POLITICAL IDEOLOGIES

ENGAGE
Is our government doing a good job? Do our public officials uphold the welfare of the
people? Are the actions of our government and its officials good or bad? What is your idea of
good governance? If you were to change one thing about politics and governance, what would it
be? These are questions that are often asked by citizens whenever they ponder upon the actions
and nature of their government. The ideas that come to mind when addressing these questions
form the core of a political ideology that all members of the state have. As members of a state,
we share certain views, beliefs, and values with our fellow citizens, and we expect our
government to uphold these shared values and beliefs in its policies and programs. We also know
that not all citizens share the same ideas and beliefs regarding the government, and these
influence their actions whether they are supportive or critical of the government. Understanding
political ideologies, therefore, is an important task for citizens as they seek to understand how
government works and how they can better participate in the affairs of the state.
At the end of the lesson, students are expected to answer the following questions:
1. How do political ideologies make sense of state and society?
2. What are the various political ideologies and how are they similar or different from each
other?
3. How does ideology influence politics and governance?
4. How does ideology influence citizenship?
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Discuss
Political Ideology: Its Role and Functions
Ideology refers to a set of beliefs and ideas that shape an individual's or a group's views,
actions, and interactions with the world. Political ideology, meanwhile, is a set of beliefs and
ideas that define political activities, policies, and events.
A political ideology is comprised of related and supporting ideas that advance a certain
idea of what society and government is or what it should be. emphasizes certain values,
principles, and ideals which distinguish it from other political ideologies. For example,
liberalism emphasizes individual freedom while fascism gives primary importance to the state
over the individual.
 A political ideology outlines the role of government and the economy in society. It
proposes ideas regarding the most effective government, and the social and economic structure
that will enable the state to uphold its principles and realize its goals. Political ideologies also
define how states should develop and transform. Ideology becomes the basis for the values,
principles, and ideas to which the state subscribes to define its laws, programs, and political
activities. A state may be defined by a single Ideology, or It may choose to adopt several ideas
from various ideologies. Within societies, different ideologies may exist and interact closely with
each other Political ideology is also the basis for the development of a political culture, which is
a set of beliefs, attitudes, and behavior that define political processes and governance
An ideology is considered to have four key functions: 1) it explains how society and
politics are organized and how various aspects of politics work; 2) it evaluates whether a certain
political action or program is good or bad; 3) it orients those who subscribe to it to have a sense
of identity and direction; and 4) it provides a program or plan of action that will bring about
political change.
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The Political Spectrum

The political spectrum is a graphic representation of political ideologies along a line from
left to right. The left side of the line includes those that adhere to liberal and socialist ideologies,
while the right side of the line presents those that conform to conservative and fascist ideologies.
The center of the line represents a moderate or "centrist ideology which balances the ideas from
the left and right sides of the political spectrum.
The following is a presentation of the major political ideologies arranged along the

Socialism Liberalism Neoliberalism Reactionism

Anarchism Social Democracy Centrism Conservatism Fascism

The concept of the political spectrum is where we get the popular terms "left wing/left
leaning. "right wing/right-leaning and centrist" when discussing political views. This is traced to
the French Revolution and the Estates General, the legislative body of the French government.
Representatives opposed to the monarchy sat on the left side of the assembly hall, while the
supporters of the king sat on the right side of the hall. "Leftist ideas, in the modern context,
include ideologies that value individual freedom over government control. These include
liberalism, social democracy, socialism, and anarchism. "Rightist" or "right wing ideologies
emphasize government power and authority, often at the expense of individual freedom. These
include neoliberalism, conservatism, reactionism, and fascism. As one goes from the center to
the other end of the spectrum, the ideologies become more extreme. It can thus be said that on
the "leftist" side, liberalism is the most moderate ideology while anarchism is the most extreme;
while on the "right wing side, neoliberalism is the most moderate while fascism is the most
extreme. "Centrist" ideas, meanwhile, combine elements from both the left and right and
advocate more moderate policies.
LEFT (Liberal-Socialist) CENTER (Moderate) RIGHT (Conservative-
Fascist)
1. Emphasis on personal 1. Combines ideas and 1. Emphasis on the welfare of
liberty and human rights principles from both the left the state or the common good
and the right
2 Government regulation of 2. Individual interests should
the market 2. Emphasizes balance give way to national or state
between extreme views and interests
3. Government control over ideas
essential services and 3. Markets should be free and
economic activities 3. Seeks the middle ground unregulated

4. Envisions an egalitarian in political issues 4 Emphasizes the rule of law

society where there is no and the power of the state,
distinction between people 4. Seeks to maintain The especially in times of crisis
based on economic status or status quo in politics and (authoritarian)
identity (socialist) society
5. Often nationalistic and
5. Seeks a limited role for the 5. May lean toward some ethnic-centered
government, especially with leftist ideas or policies
regard to private matters and (center-left), or may prefer 6. Prefers a strong military
individual decisions some right-wing ideas or and seeks to project a
(libertarian) policies (center-right) powerful image in
international affairs
6. Often advocates political
and social change through 7. Most extreme views
revolutionary means demand total control over all
aspects of the lives of their
7. Most extreme views citizens (totalitarian)
advocate the dismantling of
the government to be
replaced by community-based
governance (anarchist)

Note that similar ideologies (ie, those that belong to the same side" in the political
spectrum) do not necessarily agree on some views regarding politics, economy, and society, and
that ideologies often give rise to other branches that may espouse some extreme or radically
unique views on politics and society.
While the political spectrum is a useful tool in evaluating and determining the scope of
ideas that are prevalent within a state, other tools have emerged that can help us get a better
picture of political ideologies that influence a state and even those of individuals. The Nolan
Chart and the Political Compass are diagrams that plot political ideologies along two axes based
on the political spectrum (left-right) and social freedom (authoritarian-libertarian). These
diagrams take into consideration the possibility that political ideas from one side of the spectrum
may overlap or relate with those from the opposite side, and that citizens and groups may
espouse ideas that are influenced in various degrees, by both sides of the political spectrum.

Political Compass Nolan Chart

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Major Political Ideologies and Related Ideas

The following are the major political ideologies most prevalent in states throughout the
world.

Liberalism
This ideology considers economic and social inequality as undesirable and seeks to
establish a society that provides opportunities for growth to all individuals. Public policy,
therefore, must be oriented toward eliminating discrimination and barriers to growth and
development. All citizens must have access to essential services such as health care, education,
and social security Liberalism upholds the recognition of human rights and freedoms such
freedom of speech and freedom of religion, gender equality, and a secular government.

Social Democracy
This ideology seeks to implement socialist reforms in society within the framework of a
democratic government and capitalist economy Social democrats advocate government
regulation of the economy, Income distribution, and the promotion of social welfare Social
democracy envisions the establishment of a socialist state through legal, non-violent means.

Socialism
Socialism envisions the establishment of a state characterized by public ownership of
resources and the means of production. Production is done not for profit, but to meet basic
human needs. There is democratic control over the use of resources and the production of goods
and services are done in a cooperative manner. The government ensures that all citizens have
free access to goods and services. Communism is a socialist ideology that believes that
inequality is a result of capitalism and the existence of a class system. Society therefore, must be
transformed to eliminate class divisions in order to achieve equality Marxism is a communist
ideology that believes capitalist societies are characterized by class conflict or the struggle
between the working class and the capitalists. Marxists believe that the working class or the
proletariat will lead a revolution that will establish a communist society. Communism is more
revolutionary in its orientation as it advocates mass action and even armed struggle in order to
achieve its goals.

Anarchism
This is the most extreme of the ideologies on the left as it advocates the total dismantling
and elimination of the state. For anarchists, the state is undesirable as its various aspects such as
control, political authority, and hierarchy represent everything that is detrimental to freedom and
individualism. Instead of the state, anarchists advocate the establishment of self-governed
communities where individuals manage their affairs through cooperative effort and mutual
respect.

Neoliberalism
This Ideology is based on laissez-faire economics which upholds free markets and trade
liberalization. Neoliberals believe that economic growth is key to human progress, and that the
government must not intervene in the activities of markets and capitalists. This ideology gained
popularity during the 1980s and was implemented by the governments of the United Kingdom
and the United States. In particular the Reagan administration of the United States advocated
trickle down" economics-a policy that reduced taxes on the wealthy and businesses. It was
believed that the policy would result in economic benefits for the rest of the population of the
United States.

Conservatism
 This ideology upholds a strong stable government and the firm implementation of laws.
Conservatives value continuity of tradition and are more nationalistic, religious, and moralistic in
their political views. This view also upholds the existence of a free market with limited
intervention from the government. Conservatives also prefer a strong military and advocate a
strong presence in international affairs. In the United States, conservative thought adheres to the
belief in a "limited government" in the sense that government should not interfere in the
individual beliefs and decisions of its citizens. It is the view of conservatives that social problems
are not the concern of the government and should be addressed at the local or community level
Conservatism is also wary of any change or reform, and are generally opposed to socialist ideas.

Reactionism
This ideology is a variation of conservatism. While conservatism seeks to maintain the
status quo, reactionism advocates a return to the "old ways". Reactionaries consider the present
state of society as flawed and looks to the past which they consider as a more orderly and better
time. Society, therefore, should change in a way that traditional practices and previous state
policies are revived.

Fascism
This is a radical right-wing ideology that is based on fierce nationalism and
authoritarianism. Fascism advocates a very strong central government, with many of the aspects
of democratic government subject to restrictions or even eliminated. Fascism emerged as a
significant political ideology in Italy during the 1930s, although this ideology also influenced the
rise of the Nazi Party in Germany and militarism in Japan. For fascists, society is in danger From
various threats such as invasion, war, or rebellion, and a very strong government with unlimited
powers is needed to address these threats. The fascist government is centered on a dictatorship,
and political opposition and dissent is suppressed. For fascists, the interests of the state is
considered paramount, and individual liberties and interests must give way to the interests of the
state.

Ideology and Governance

Ideology is a major influence on the way government organizes itself and conducts its
activities. The ideas and principles espoused by political ideologies become the bases of state
policies and principles, which in turn defines laws and political traditions. Citizens are also
influenced by state ideologies as they are influenced and even indoctrinated to conform to
political culture defined by the accepted ideologies of the state.
In actual practice, most advocates of political ideologies do not fully embrace all idea of
their preferred ideologies. Many political groups have a core ideology as basis for their
fundamental beliefs, but may adopt some ideas from other political ideologies. Many
governments seek a balance between left-leaning and right-leaning policies, while some states
declare themselves to be fully committed to a certain ideology. States that advocate communist
or socialist ideologies include China, Laos, Cuba, and Vietnam. Fascist regimes emerged in
Spain during the 1930s during the reign of Francisco Franco, while the Person administration of
Argentina was also primarily influenced by Fascist ideals. Many states have active political
parties that advocate ideologies across the political spectrum. Governments may also experience
changes in their political ideologies due to historical developments or social change.
Political systems may be established based on a single ideology or a combination of ideas
from various ideologies. Authoritarianism and totalitarianism, for instance, are influenced by
right-wing ideologies. Authoritarianism is a political system with a strong central government,
limited freedom for citizens, and constraints on political institutions. Totalitarianism, meanwhile,
is a political system where government authority is unlimited and the state has control over the
public and private lives of its citizens. Libertarianism, on the other hand, a political system where
the government has limited influence over the economy and society, appeals to some liberal and
conservative groups
In Philippine politics, one important evidence of the influence of political ideologies in
governance is the Philippine Constitution. The 1987 Constitution has various sections that
embody certain liberal, socialist, conservative, and even fascist ideas. For instance, Section 18 of
Article VII, which defines the president's power to suspend the writ of habeas corpus for a
limited period of time and declare martial law in times of emergency, is an essentially fascist
power. This power, however, is tempered by the fact that it is subject to the review and approval
of the other branches of government. Article III (Bill of Rights) and Article XIII (Social Justice
and Human Rights) are expressions of liberal and socialist ideals, as the rights included uphold
individual liberties, the interests of specific sectors of society, and serve as a check on the power
of the state. Article XV (The Family) is influenced by conservative ideas as it upholds the value
of the Filipino family.
Filipino party politics, however, is not fully influenced by political ideology in the sense
that adherence to a certain political ideology does not define the identity and purpose of political
parties in our country. Unlike in countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States,
where major political parties have definite political ideologies that define their programs and
policies, Philippine political parties are seen more as political machines for individual candidates
to gain political office rather than platforms for advocating political ideas. In fact, the programs
and platforms of major political parties at present are very similar to one another. Political
commenters have noted that Philippine politics is primarily personality driven, and citizens often
base their participation in government on whether or not they identify with or "like a certain
political leader or official. The prevalence of patronage politics, where politicians use state
resources to reward supporters, is also another factor that prevents the emergence of an ideology-
based party politics in the country.
However, one political ideology that has gained popularity among Filipino politicians in
recent times is populism which emphasizes the interests of the masses. This view often presents
the masses as being oppressed by the elite or an oligarchy, and that it is the role of the
government to limit the privileges of the elite and uplift the condition of the masses. Populism
does not fall neatly along the political spectrum as its ideas are often used by various ideological
groups to advance their respective causes and gain popularity among the people.

On the other hand, there are several non-government interest groups and organizations in
our country that are influenced by political ideologies. Organizations such as AKBAYAN and
Kilusang Mayo Uno profess an agenda that is primarily influenced by socialist ideas. The
Communist Party of the Philippines is an organization that advocates the establishment of
communism in the country through an armed struggle. Religious organizations, meanwhile,
primarily adhere to conservative beliefs and ideas. These and other organizations continually
interact with the government in an effort to uphold their respective agendas.

Ideology and Citizenship

All individuals have their respective ideologies that enable them to make sense of the
world and their place in it. Political ideologies, in particular, are a product of state indoctrination
and an individual's own background, experiences, and acquired knowledge. Political views and
beliefs, in turn, determine the actions and behavior of citizens. Political ideologies, therefore, are
a basis of citizen action and participation in governance. The influence of political ideology on
citizen action is evident in four key areas: 1) respect for law and order; 2) political participation;
3) humanitarianism; and 4) political dissent, protest, and civil disobedience.

Reflect on your own political ideology by answering the following questions:

1. Do you believe that the laws of the state uphold the welfare of the people?
2. Which do you consider more important: upholding personal freedom or upholding law and
order?
3. Is it reasonable for the government to suspend certain rights and freedoms during times of
crisis
(wars rebellion, invasion)?
4. Do you keep yourself informed about government activities, programs, and initiatives?
5. Do you support government activities in your community and school?
6. Do you believe that ordinary citizens are able to bring about genuine and effective change in
our government and society?
7. Have you ever participated in political events such as meetings or rallies?
8. Have you ever participated in activities organized by your local government in the barangay or
city?
9. Would society benefit more from a government that controls every aspect of our lives, or from
a government that allows its citizens to make choices for themselves
10. Do you agree that all individuals, whatever their background or situation in life, deserve to be
recognized as persons with dignity, rights, and freedom?
11. Do you believe that it is the government's role to address social problems such as poverty and
inequality
12. Have you ever been involved with humanitarian or charitable causes? In what capacity were
you able to help?
13. Do you believe that public officials and leaders should be held accountable for their actions?
14. Do you believe that officials who do not uphold the ideals and principles of the state should
be
removed from office?
15. Do you agree that citizens should criticize the actions and decisions of public officials?
16. Do you believe that mass actions such as rallies and protests are effective ways of expressing
opinion for or against a government policy or action?
17. What will you do if government policies and actions clash with your personal beliefs and
convictions?
An awareness of one's political ideology is essential as it helps citizens participate
effectively in politics. Ideology can be a source of stability and unity, especially if majority of
the citizens believe in the principles and values of the government. Citizens who do not share in
the prevailing doctrines and ideas of the state, on the other hand, can be an effective counter-
balance to the state and provide a voice of dissent and opposition whenever necessary. Being
aware of one's political beliefs and values also helps in critically examining government actions
and programs. Citizen support for the government should not be unconditional and uncritical,
thus an awareness of what one stands for and how government should uphold the shared beliefs
of its citizens is necessary to prevent any action of the government that might go against the
principles and values of a democratic state.

RECALL
 Political ideology is a set of beliefs and ideas that define political activities, policies,
and events. It is comprised of related and supporting ideas that advance a certain view
of what society and government is or what it should be.
  Political ideologies propose ideas regarding the role of the government and economy in
society, and how these contribute to the development and transformation of the state.
Ideologies are the bases of political action and the development of a state's political
culture. Ideologies have explanatory, evaluative, orienting, and programmatic
functions.

 The political spectrum is a representation of political ideologies arranged along a line.

Those ideologies on the left side of the spectrum adhere to liberal and socialist ideas,
while those on the right side conform to conservative and fascist ideals.

 Major liberal political ideologies include liberalism, social democracy, socialism, and
anarchism. These ideas uphold equality, government regulation of economic activities
and resources, and recognition of individual rights and freedoms.

 Major conservative political ideologies include neoliberalism, conservatism,

reactionism, and fascism. These ideas uphold a strong government, strict adherence to
laws and traditional values, and the welfare of the state above the individual.

 Ideology is an important influence on governance as it defines political activities,

citizenship, and the development of laws and policies. Ideological influences are most
evident in Philippine laws, particularly the Philippine Constitution. On the other hand,
the influence of ideology is less evident in Philippine party politics.

 There are many interest groups in our society, however, that are influenced by political
ideologies. These groups continually interact with the government in pursuit of their
respective objectives.

 Ideology is also important for citizenship as political beliefs and values influence
participation in government activities and programs. Citizens who share in the
ideologies of the government are often enthusiastic supporters of government action,
while those who hold opposing ideas become a source of opposition and dissent that
counter-balance government power.

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EXAMINE
A. Identify the following
__________1. This is a set of beliefs and ideas that shape an individual o group's views, actions,
and interactions with the world.
__________2. This is a set of beliefs and ideas that define activities, policies, and events.
__________3. A set of beliefs, attitudes, and behavior that define political process and
governance.
__________4. A graphic representation that present political Ideologies along a line from left to
right.
___________5. This term refers to ideologies that value individual freedom and rejects
government control.
__________6. This term refers to ideologies that emphasize government power and authority at
the expense of individual freedom
__________7. This ideology seeks to establish a society that provides all citizens opportunities
for
growth.
__________8. This ideology envisions a state that owns all resources and means of production
__________9. This ideology upholds a strong stable government, the firm implementation of
laws,
and the continuity of tradition
__________10. This ideology advocates the interests of the masses, and seeks to limit the
privileges of the elite.
B. Identify which political ideology the following statements refer to. Write your answer in
the space provided.
__________1. Government is unnecessary and evil.
__________2. If we uphold a free market, not only will it benefit businessmen but also the rest
of
the country.
__________3. During the time of martial law in the 1970s there was peace and order in the
country.
Therefore, we need to impose martial law once again to bring back peace and
order.
__________4. We must make sure that the government is able to provide affordable housing for
all citizens as a way to uplift their way living
__________5. Private property must be abolished, and the government should take control of all
economic resources and activities.
__________6. Communities are the best political institutions since they manage their affairs
 through the cooperative efforts of its members.
__________7. A socialist state can be established if we work within the government and make
gradual changes to it.
__________8. We must give the President all the power he needs to eradicate the drug menace in
our country. Human rights are Irrelevant as long as the drug problem exists in our
country.

__________9. The workers and peasants have been oppressed for too long. It is time for them to
rise up and overthrow the capitalist government.
__________10. We must make sure that the government is empowered to address crime and
fully
implement the laws throughout the country

C. Answer the following questions.

1. What are the important functions of a political ideology?
2. What are the general features of ideologies on the left and right side of the political spectrum?
3. How do political ideologies influence the conduct of governance? Discuss an example in
Philippine politics.
4. Which ideas from the various ideologies do you believe are applicable in Philippine politics?
Explain.
5. How can an understanding of political ideologies benefit you as a citizen?
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ANALYZE
A. Compare the various political ideologies using the table below. Fill in the spaces by writing
their respective views and ideas on society, the economy, government, and citizens in the
appropriate spaces.
Political ideology Liberalism Social Democracy Socialism

Liberalism
 Social Democracy

Socialism

Anarchism

Neoliberalism

Conservatism

Reactionism

Fascism

B. Examine the 1987 Philippine Constitution and determine how the various political
ideologies are reflected in its provisions. Fill out the table below with the required

Political ideology Section or Provision Relevant Content and Ideas

Liberalism

Social Democracy

Socialism

Anarchism

Neoliberalism

Conservatism

Reactionism
 Fascism

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EMPOWER
A. Should democracy be considered an ideology? Conduct a class discussion regarding this
question.
B. Choose a local or national politician. Look into his or her background, government record,
and political ideas and convictions. Determine which political ideologies relate most closely to
his or her ideas.
C. Come up with a proposed political party with an ideological platform. Define the objectives of
your party as well as the guiding principles and ideologies that will be basis of your program of
action. Present an outline of your party's platform in class.
D. Determine your personal ideology regarding politics and governance. Take an online test to
determine your political ideology based on the political compass
(https://www.politicalcompass.org/test/). Present and discuss your personal results in class.
Evaluate whether the results of the test correspond to your own personal views on politics and
governance.

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