Ideology Spectrum

Definition

The Ideology Spectrum is a way to categorize political ideologies on an axis from left-wing (liberal) to right-wing (conservative).

Analogy

The Ideology Spectrum can be compared to a sliding scale at your doctor's office. Just like you can slide the marker to measure your height, politicians and citizens can "slide" on the spectrum based on their beliefs about government intervention, social issues, and economic policies.

Related terms

Political Ideology: A set of ethical ideals, principles, doctrines or symbols that an individual or group believes in and explains how society should work.

Left-wing Politics: Political views that accept or support social equality, often in opposition to social hierarchy and structural inequality.

Right-wing Politics: Political views that believe certain social orders and hierarchies are inevitable, natural, normal or desirable.