The word ideology must be defined as it can be a very loose concept and not all scholars agree on its definition due to its complexity. However, this essay shall attempt to define and evaluate how to assess an ideology. To assess an ideology, it is essential to know how to assess; this is when you evaluate the nature, ability or quality of something.
Ideology is the study of ideas. Ideology forms the basis of political or economic theory, and policy or it can be a collection of opinions of an individual or social group.
Freeden uses his book 'A Very Short Introduction' to contribute a definition of political ideology as being a collection of values, opinions, ideas and beliefs that show a repeated sequence. A political ideology is 'held by notable organisations (political party) who contest over supplying and ruling policy for the public they do this by defending, challenging or differing the political as well as social measures and mechanisms of a political society' (Freeden 2003).
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The first 'P that Freeden talks about is proximity which demonstrates that political concepts cannot be understood on their own unless it is tested with an ideology, for instance, the two dominant ideologies conservatism and liberalism on the idea of same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriage is not significant by itself. However, when looked at from a conservative viewpoint (far-right) it is seen to be abnormal and against the law. On the other hand, when looking at same-sex marriage from a liberal perspective, it is seen as natural and legal. This is a clear example of how a specific idea has no foundation without an