Paper 3 USA · Comparative approaches
UK and US politics compared - paragraph completion
2 paragraphs argue one side. You write the rebuttal and the interim judgement.
How this works. Each pre-written opening argues one side. Your job is the rebuttal: answer it with the named evidence, then end on an interim judgement. Your writing saves on this device.
Paragraph 1 · theme: The reach of structure
Evaluate the view that structural factors best explain the differences between UK and US politics.
The opening (given) - rebut this
Structural theory is often said to be the weakest comparative lens: it predicts that identical rules give identical politics, yet outcomes differ because politicians respond to incentives and societies hold different values. On this view rational and cultural theory explain more.
Your task - write the rebuttal
Answer back using: FPTP producing two-party systems in both countries; codified entrenchment protecting US rights from majorities; separation of powers versus the UK's fused executive. Finish with an interim judgement that backs your line of argument.
Paragraph 2 · theme: The cultural challenge
Evaluate the view that structural factors best explain the differences between UK and US politics.
The opening (given) - rebut this
Cultural theory is often held up as the deepest lens, explaining why gun rights and healthcare play out so differently, so values, not institutions, drive the divergence.
Your task - write the rebuttal
Answer back using: the predictive power of structural rules regardless of who is in office; rational re-election incentives shaping caution; the integrated SCOTUS-politicisation example using all three lenses. Finish with an interim judgement that backs your line of argument.