ELECTORAL SYSTEM Flashcards
WHAT IS AN ELECTORAL SYSTEM
A system that translates votes into the desired leadership outcome of the people. Most often used to translate votes into seats in parliament. They may be based on single-member electorates or multi-member electorates. Electoral systems are classified as either majoritarian or proportional or a blended compromise of both.
WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF A FAIR ELECTION
1.All citizens must have a political right to vote
2.Electors must not be intimidated or pressured when voting
3.Electors’ voting power must be equal
3.Nominations for candidates should be as open as possible
5.Political parties must be treated equally.
What is the strengths of majoritarian system
Effective at ensuring majority rule and strong relationship with constituents.
What is a majoritarian system
Based on single-member electorates.
What is the weakness of majoritarian system
- Distort the size of the ‘winner’s margin’ or ‘winner’s bonus’ in the electorate and in parliament.
- Reduce political participation by minimising minor party representation.
