Evaluate the view that social class is still a major influence on voting behaviour - Scottish Highers Modern Studies - Question (c) - 2022

Social class has historically played a significant role in shaping voting behavior, particularly in the context of traditional party loyalty in the UK. Research indicates that individuals from working-class backgrounds were more likely to support the Labour Party, while middle-class individuals often favored the Conservative Party.

In the present day, however, the significance of social class appears to be diminishing. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and regional identity are increasingly influencing voter behavior. For example, in Scotland, the rise of the Scottish National Party (SNP) reflects a shift towards national rather than class-based voting patterns.

Additionally, the Brexit referendum in 2016 highlighted how geographical factors superseded traditional class lines, as voting patterns varied massively between urban and rural areas, as well as between different regions of the UK. This suggests that class may still play a role, but is often intertwined with other defining factors.

In conclusion, while social class continues to influence voting behavior to some extent, its predominance is challenged by a variety of social, economic, and political factors. This complexity indicates that modern voting behavior cannot be solely attributed to class, as evolving dynamics within society are increasingly shaping electoral outcomes.