L5: Concepts of Representation (Pitkin, 1967)

Question 1

Views of representation

Answer 1

• Formalistic representation
• Symbolic representation
• Substantive representation
• Descriptive representation

Question 2

Formalistic representation

Definition

Answer 2

The institutional arrangements that precede and initiate representation

Question 3

Formalistic representation

Components

Answer 3

• Authorization: means by which a representative obtains their standing, status, position or office.
• Accountability: possibility to punish representatives; the responsiveness of the latter to people

Question 4

Formalistic representation

Assessment

Answer 4

simple own appreciation

Question 5

Symbolic representation

Definition

Answer 5

Representatives should stand for the represented (embody the collective identity and ideals of the represented)

Question 6

Symbolic representation

Assessment

Answer 6

degree of acceptance of the representative among the represented

Question 7

Substantive Representation

Definition

Answer 7

• Representatives should act for the represented

Question 8

Substantive Representation

Views

Answer 8

• Mandate/Delegation model (serving local interests)

vs. Independence/Trustee model (Burke) (serving (inter)national interests)

Question 9

Substantive Representation

Assessment

Answer 9

the extent to which policy outcomes advanced by a representative serve “the best interests” of their constituents.

Question 10

Descriptive Representation

Definition

Answer 10

• Representatives should look like the represented in terms of their visible characteristics and/or shared experiences

Question 11

Descriptive Representation

Assessment

Answer 11

accuracy of the resemblance between the representative and the represented

Question 12

Arguments against Descriptive representation

Answer 12

• Possibly results in a group of less talented representatives
• Having characteristics of a group does not ensure that a representative will act for them
• Hard to know which groups should be represented, and in what numbers

Question 13

Arguments for Descriptive representation

Answer 13

Mansbridge, 1999: functions of democracy
Deliberative function
Aggregative function

Question 14

Deliberative function

meaning

Answer 14

discuss the policies

Question 15

Aggregative function

meaning

Answer 15

all groups, in proportion, are represented in the making of policies

Question 16

For the deliberative function, the descriptive representation is most important when:

Answer 16

• communicative distrust

* uncrystallised interests

Question 17

For the aggregative function, the descriptive representation is most important when:

Answer 17

• “ability to rule” for particular groups has been seriously questioned in the past
• legitimacy of the state is being questioned by underrepresented groups

Question 18

Is one form of representation necessary for another?

Answer 18

Good Substantive Representation only possible if good Formalistic Representation