The discussion of Lipset-Rokkan's theory of cleavages leads to the conclusion that communism left behind the post-communist cleavage. The cleavage manifested itself in electoral behavior, the party system, and the attitudes of party elites. The author considers whether the post-communist cleavage will survive in Poland.
The book begins with a discussion of Lipset-Rokkan's theory of cleavages and its continuations. The author's interpretation of this theory is applied to a historical context: the communist system that divided society into communist and anti-communist sides. They survived the fall of communism, resulting in the post-communist cleavage. This cleavage manifested itself in social identities, electoral behavior, the shape of the party system and the attitudes of party elites. The problem of generalizing Lipset-Rokkan's theory is considered – its scope and applicability to the various post-communist countries. The problem of persistence is also discussed – the post-communist cleavage was sustained by various factors, but also weakened by the actions and choices made by the party elites.
Jolanta Scicinska
Bases Cleavage communist communist system electorates Grabowska Jolanta Mirosława Naukowe podstawy Podział Poland political elites political parties Politics