cleavage (politics)

In politics, "cleavage" refers to a significant division or split within a society that influences voting patterns and political party development. These divides often stem from differences in social, economic, or cultural identities—such as class, religion, ethnicity, or language—that shape people's beliefs and preferences. Recognizing these cleavages helps explain why certain issues resonate strongly with specific groups and how political parties tailor their platforms to appeal to different segments. Ultimately, cleavages are fundamental to understanding the organization of political systems and the formation of governments in diverse societies.