Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the conceptual parameters of analysing opposition, which contributes towards a theory of opposition in contemporary democracies. It describes that, in the light of the changed dynamics of parliamentary and extra-parliamentary opposition, Peter Pulzer reflects on the impact of political change on the role of opposition and the categories applied to analyse it. The book evaluates the state of opposition in particular countries. For Britain, David Denver shows the transition from two-party alternation towards multi-partism. It emphasises Byron Criddle emphasises the integrative function of the presidency in France and evaluates the effect on consensual politics of the new juxtaposition of a Socialist President and a parliamentary majority and Prime Minister from the political Right. As centripetal forces gained ground across Western Europe, opposition parties adopted more consensual positions.