Conclusion
So far in this chapter we have seen political stability or instability as
arising from a number of different conflicts which can be con-
veniently summarised in a slightly different way from that presented
so far in Box 5.5.
BOX 5.5 MAJOR POLITICAL DIVISIONS
We consider a number of these themes in other parts of the book –
for instance, ‘distributive’ issues are discussed at more length in
Chapter 8 (Policies), ‘process’ issues in chapters 6 (States) and 7
(Democracy) and ‘redistributive’ issues both in this chapter and in
Chapter 8. But, in relation to all of them, it is worth emphasising that
who defines what the problem is, will also tend to define what is
regarded as an acceptable solution. With so many divisions between
the different sections of humanity, it is unlikely that lasting
‘solutions’ can be found to major problems that will be acceptable to
all the parties affected. This is doubly so if we consider the tendencies
to change in political systems considered at length in this chapter. In
the authors’ view, then, a pluralist approach to the management of
political differences is both desirable, and almost inevitable: groups
must learn to tolerate and negotiate with those who have very
different perspectives upon the issues which arise.
PROCESSES 133- WHO ARE WE? Identity issues: nationalism, race, ethnicity, class,
gender, religion - WHAT DO WE DO? Distributive issues: how to deliver state
services, regulate the economy - HOW DO WE DO IT? Process issues: conservatism/radicalism,
constitutional - WHO BENEFITS? Redistributive issues: rich v poor (people,
regions, states)
(After Rose, 1969)