Final answer:
American and Canadian voters are less influenced by occupational class compared to those in western European countries. Socioeconomic status, education, and income levels are major predictors of voter turnout, impacting which demographics are more represented politically. The correct answer is option a. less.
Step-by-step explanation:
Compared to voters in most western European countries, American and Canadian voters are less influenced by occupational class position. This is because socioeconomic factors like education and income are strong predictors of voting behavior in the United States and Canada. Higher levels of education and income generally correlate with increased voter turnout, and those with high socioeconomic status are more likely to have their interests represented in policies. In contrast, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face barriers to voting, such as inflexible work hours, lack of quality daycare, and stringent voter identification requirements which disproportionately impact minorities and the impoverished.
In addition, research indicates that more settled individuals, those who are more connected to society, or those with certain domestic statuses, such as being married or employed, are more likely to vote. Politicians are likely to focus on the interests of these groups. Voter turnout is uneven across different segments of society, with differences becoming more marked in low turnout nations as opposed to high-turnout nations where the differences in voter demographics may not be as pronounced.