What does partisanship refer to?

Partisanship refers to the strong loyalty or allegiance to a particular political party or cause. It signifies a commitment that often influences how individuals interpret political events, policies, and decisions through the lens of their party affiliation. Such loyalty can manifest in various forms, such as voting patterns, public discourse, and the overall engagement in political activities. In a political context, partisanship can shape the behavior of lawmakers and citizens alike, often leading to divisions between supporters of different parties.

The other options suggest concepts that do not adequately capture the essence of partisanship. A system of government refers to the broader organizational structures that dictate how a state operates, which does not encompass individuals' loyalty to specific political groups. Neutrality implies an impartial stance, which is contrary to the idea of partisanship, as it involves taking a side. Economic theories related to taxation focus on fiscal policies and economic behavior rather than the political allegiance that characterizes partisanship.