theories of representation Flashcards
what is the burkean theory?
-although MPs should listen to the views of their constituents, ultimately their constituency has entrusted them to use their own judgement in parliament
what’s an example of the burkean theory?
the tory MP Nick Boles was personally a remainer when his constituency was leave, so he voted against his party in many brexit votes
what’s a strength of the burkean theory?
MPs can use their political knowledge and experience to make decisions, as they are better suited to than their constituents are
what’s a weakness of the burkean theory?
the theory has been weakened by party whips and strong party ties throughout UK politics
what’s the delegate theory?
MPs are simply the mouthpiece of their constituents, and should therefore align their decisions with the opinion of their constituency
what’s an example of the delegate theory?
the tory MP zack goldsmith promised his constituency of richmond park (who were against a 3rd heathrow runway being built) that if it was approved by the government he represented, he would resign - sp when it was approved he did resign.
what’s a strength of the delegate theory?
it’s easy for constituents nowadays to get in touch with their MP and express their views, through social media and emails
what’s a weakness of the delegate theory?
the views of the vocal minority who actually bother to contact their MP are not likely to be representative of the constituency’s views as a whole
what’s the mandate theory?
states that MPs have beeb elected due to their party and not their personality, so they should act in line with their party’s manifesto
it’s the strongest theory in modern politics because political parties have lots of power and discipline
reflects the fact that most votes an MP receives are because of party allegiance
what’s a strength of the mandate theory?
it’s the strongest theory in modern politics because political parties have lots of power and discipline
what’s a weakness of the mandate theory?
most voters don’t read the entirety of a party’s manifesto, so the party has the power to go against any manifesto pledges
therefore the views of their constituents will not be represented
