Electoral Systems Flashcards
Which electoral system in the UK best fulfils the functions of an election?
Overall, PR best fulfils the function of representing voter preferences, while FPTP is more suited to producing decisive, single-party governments. Yet, FPTP is used most commonly in the UK as it allows to elect a MP for every constituency.
What are the different types of electoral systems in the UK?
First Past the Post (FPTP): Common in UK general elections, FPTP often results in strong, stable governments but tends to underrepresent smaller parties, limiting proportionality.
Proportional Representation (PR): PR systems, like the Single Transferable Vote, better reflect voters’ preferences and party support but can lead to coalition governments, sometimes seen as less stable.
Mixed-Member Proportional (MMP): Balances direct constituency representation with proportional representation, offering both voter accountability and fairer party representation.
What is the most significant factor is assessing the effectiveness of an electoral system?
Stability of government: Some systems, like First Past the Post, tend to create clear majorities, which can promote stable, decisive governance.
Accountability: Effective systems clearly link representatives to their constituents, making it easier for voters to hold elected officials accountable.
Inclusivity: Good systems also enable diverse perspectives, ensuring that minority groups have a voice in decision-making.
Have the uses of other electoral systems demonstrated the necessity of replacing FPTP?
Proportionality: Systems like AMS in Scotland and Wales better match seats to votes, giving smaller parties like the Greens fairer representation, which FPTP often fails to do.
Voter Choice: Proportional systems reduce “wasted” votes, increasing satisfaction and engagement. In contrast, FPTP leaves many voters in “safe seats” without meaningful influence.
Coalition Stability: AMS and STV, used in Scotland and Northern Ireland, show that coalition governments can be stable and inclusive, even though FPTP is preferred for producing strong, single-party governments.
To what extent have the different electoral systems resulted in different outcomes?
Small Parties: AMS in Scotland and Wales has allowed smaller parties, like the Greens, to gain representation, unlike FPTP in UK general elections, which limits their success.
Coalitions vs. Majorities: FPTP often results in single-party majorities, while AMS in devolved governments tends to create coalition or minority governments, promoting collaborative politics.
Community Representation: STV in Northern Ireland supports power-sharing across divided communities, which FPTP struggles to achieve.
How significant has the use of referendum been in the UK?
Devolution: Referendums in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland led to the creation of devolved governments, reshaping UK governance.
EU Membership: The 2016 referendum resulted in Brexit, significantly impacting the UK’s political and economic landscape.
Scottish Independence: The 2014 referendum kept Scotland in the UK but fuelled ongoing independence debates.
To what extent do referendums undermine democracy in the UK?
Strengthen: They allow direct citizen involvement in major decisions, enhancing legitimacy on key issues like EU membership or Scottish independence.
Undermine: They can weaken representative democracy by bypassing elected officials, leading to oversimplified choices on complex matters.
Divisive: Close results, like Brexit, can deepen divisions and cause lasting political tension.
Information Issues: Voters may lack unbiased information, leading to decisions based on misleading or incomplete facts.
What factors influence the calling of a referendum?
Political Pressure: Governments may call referendums to address public demand or internal party divisions (e.g., the 2016 EU referendum).
Constitutional Change: Significant changes, like devolution or EU membership, often require public approval.
Party Strategy: Leaders may use referendums to resolve internal party disputes or gain support for controversial policies.
Public Opinion: A shift in public sentiment can push for a referendum on key issues.
Precedent: The increasing use of referendums on major issues encourages their continued use
