Book Review: Giovanni Sartori - Parties and Party Systems (2005)

Abstract

Giovanni Sartori, in his Parties and Party Systems (2005), offers an in-depth theoretical analysis of the role of political parties in democratic systems. The book makes a significant contribution through its classification of party systems into three main categories: one-party, two-party and multi-party systems, and highlights the impact of ideology and electoral systems on political structures. Sartori explains that party systems affect political stability, government effectiveness and patterns of social representation, with concrete comparisons from different countries. However, Sartori's approach has been criticized for its rigid categorization, lack of attention to party system dynamics in developing countries, and lack of focus on practical implementation. Compared to other literature, such as the works of Robert Dahl, Mancur Olson, and Arend Lijphart, Sartori emphasizes political stability over participation or consensus. By presenting a comprehensive theoretical framework, this book remains an important reference in the study of political party systems, although it requires development for more complex and diverse contemporary contexts.