How does the model of first past the post systems influence party formation?

The model of first past the post (FPTP) systems significantly influences party formation by favoring the development of a two-party system. In FPTP electoral systems, candidates compete for individual districts, and the candidate with the most votes in each district wins. This structure tends to marginalize smaller parties because votes for these parties can often be seen as 'wasted' if they do not have a realistic chance of winning in the particular district.

As a result, political parties often find it more beneficial to align with broader coalitions that can appeal to a wider electorate rather than to cater to niche or specific voter bases. This encourages large parties to absorb smaller parties or push them out of the competitive landscape, leading to a concentration of political power within two major parties. The two-party dynamic is further reinforced as voters are less likely to support parties perceived as unlikely to win, thus perpetuating the dominance of the two main parties and creating a system where they face less competition.

This characteristic of FPTP systems contributes to the stability and predictability in governance, as the outcomes often yield a decisive winner rather than a fragmented legislature, which can happen in systems with proportional representation where multiple parties can gain seats and form coalitions.