DP5 reforming uk democracy Flashcards
how would compulsory voting help reform uk democracy?
MP’s would be more representative and legitimate. However, to force someone to vote may be unfair as there is no real choice for them.
pros of compulsory voting
governments could claim greater legitimacy
politic participation would be a civic duty, voting would have wider educational implications
the greater the level of participation, the greater the likelihood citizens will think and act responsibility.
cons of compulsory voting
compulsory voting masks deeper engagement issues
it encourages non-serious voting
it could be considered a violation to the right of freedom
evidence compulsory voting is effective?
in the 2019 Australian federal election, voter turnout was 91%, largely due to compulsory voting. By contrast, the 2019 UK general election saw a turnout of 67.3%, reflecting the voluntary nature of voting in the UK.
pros and cons of lowering voting age
pro: the needs, views concerns and interests of 16-17 years olds are marginalised
pro: it may help re-engage young voters by strengthening their interests.
con: most 16/17 year olds are still in full time education living with parents (immature)
con : young voters are less likely to vote than other age groups and this will result in a decline in turnout percentages.
what is e-democracy?
the use of internet to increase and enhance citizens engagement in democratic processes.
examples of e-democracy being positive?
new technology enhances citizens access to information, making possible a truly free exchange of ideas and views
e-democracy creates a genuinely democratic process in which citizens become active
examples of e-democracy being a negative thing?
the risk of hacking could undermine the legitimacy of elections
it threatens to turn democracy into a series of push button referendums like a reality TV show, eroding its importance.
other possible reforms
greater use of referenda to give legitimacy to decisions
change the voting system
