Voting Flashcards
Is majoritarian voting proportional or disproportional
Disproportional
How does majoritarian voting work
The winner needs an absolute majority to win
Is FPTP majoritarian
no
Is FPTP a plurality system
Yes
What is a plurality system
The winner only needs one more then the 2nd place to win
What similarities do plurality and majoritarian systems share
- Non proportional
- MPs elected from single member constituencies
What are some advantages of a plurality system
Easy to understand
Stable government
Small group representation
What are some disadvantages if a plurality system
Winners bonus
One party bias
No choice between party and candidates
What is an example of a proportional system
STV
What is a proportional system
Systems that produce a close fit between votes and seats
What is distinct magnitude
Number of legislative seats per constituency
What number member constituencies does PR use
Multi - member constituencies
What are mixed systems
Combines elements of plurality and majoritarian with elements of PR
How is SV used
To elect the mayor of London and directly elected mayors,Police and commissioners
What are advantages of SV
Small party representation
Legitimacy
What are disadvantages of SV
Winner doesn’t hold majority
Disproportional
How does SV work
Voters record two preferences and the winning candidate has majority
What kind of system is SV
Majoritarian
Where is STV used
NI,Scotland
How does STV work
Electors rank candidates in multi member constituencies
Is STV proportional
Yes
What are disadvantages of STV
Less accurate
Coalition governments
Weak MP and constituency unit
What are advantages of STV
Proportional outcome
Choice between party and candidate
Where is AMS used
Scotland(Senedd),London assembly
How does AMS work
Electors can cast two votes, one for constituency candidate(FPTP) and regional list candidate(closed list PR)
What are advantages of AMS
Fair outcome
Simple
No wasted votes
What are disadvantages of AMS
Small party underrepresentation
Voters can’t choose candidates from the same party
