A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What demographic is statistically more likely to support right-wing politics?

1. Young, educated professionals

2. Older people with conservative values

3. Individuals from urban centers

4. Highly mobile workers

The correct answer is: Older people with conservative values

Older people with conservative values are statistically more likely to support right-wing politics due to several interconnected factors. Traditionally, older adults tend to lean towards preserving established norms and values, which are often aligned with conservative ideologies. This tendency can be attributed to a lifetime of experiences that shape their worldview, leading them to favor stability and continuity in governance and policy. Additionally, older populations may prioritize issues like social security, health care, and retirement benefits, which can influence their political preferences toward parties and platforms that advocate for these interests. While younger demographics may focus more on progressive issues such as climate change and social justice, older individuals often have a different set of priorities, which can result from their life stages and experiences. In contrast, young, educated professionals, individuals from urban centers, and highly mobile workers may generally lean toward more liberal or progressive policies due to factors like educational influences, urban cultural diversity, and a focus on change and innovation typically associated with younger populations. These differences in priorities and values between age groups play a crucial role in determining their political affiliations.