Elections and voting Flashcards
1
Q
What is the reason behind voting
A
mechanism for making collective decisions
- key component of representation
- Ensure that majority preferences are reflected in decisions
2
Q
What is central to democracy
A
elections
3
Q
What are the two basic types of electorial systems
A
- Plurality
- proportional representation
4
Q
What is Plurality
A
- Single- Member- Plurality
- simple (the most votes wins)
- gives clear majority
-Encourages strong opposition parties
5
Q
What are the problems of Plurality
A
- Exaggerates margins of victory
- the “wasted vote” problem
- votes for a party that can’t actually win is a waste vote
6
Q
What is proportional representation
A
- prioritizes adequate representation of public opinions
- favours the participation of minority and smaller parties
- Reduces the waste vote
7
Q
What are the problems with Proportional representation
A
- encourages fragmentation of the party system
- disproportionate power to small parties
8
Q
What are hybrid systems; Alternative member model
A
Some seats elected by majority and others by proportional representation
- some systems use multiple rounds of elections
9
Q
Why are political parties important
A
considered important feature of almost all political system
10
Q
what are the functions of Political parties
A
- legitimize the political system
- integration of citizens
- representation
- recruitment of leaders for public office
- formulation of public policy