UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

What are considered valence issues?

1. Controversial topics with clear party divides

2. Issues where most voters and candidates share the same views

3. Debates about economic policies

4. Social issues that divide the electorate

The correct answer is: Issues where most voters and candidates share the same views

Valence issues refer to topics where there is broad consensus among voters, meaning that most people, regardless of their political affiliation, tend to agree on the general outcome or the value of the issue. These issues often lead to less divisiveness because they are based on shared values or aspirations, such as public safety, economic prosperity, or healthcare. In this context, options that present controversial topics or those that create clear divides among parties or the electorate do not fit the definition of valence issues. Controversial topics or social issues, for example, generally involve significant disagreement among voters and candidates, making them contentious rather than universally accepted. Thus, the correct answer is valid because it captures the essence of valence issues as those that most voters and candidates support collectively.