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Ideological Ambiguity and Political Spectrum

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  • Hector Galindo-Silva

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between ambiguity and the ideological positioning of political parties across the political spectrum. We identify a strong non-monotonic (inverted U-shaped) relationship between party ideology and ambiguity within a sample of 202 European political parties. This pattern is observed across all ideological dimensions covered in the data. To explain this pattern, we propose a novel theory that suggests centrist parties are perceived as less risky by voters compared to extremist parties, giving them an advantage in employing ambiguity to attract more voters at a lower cost. We support our explanation with additional evidence from electoral outcomes and economic indicators in the respective party countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Hector Galindo-Silva, 2023. "Ideological Ambiguity and Political Spectrum," Papers 2308.05912, arXiv.org, revised Feb 2024.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2308.05912
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lindvall, Johannes & Rueda, David & Zhai, Haoyu, 2023. "When Parties Move to the Middle: The Role of Uncertainty," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 53(4), pages 1208-1229, October.
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    JEL classification:

    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior

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