Voting

Question 1

Median voter theorem

Answer 1

Majority rule voting system will select outcome most preferred by median voter

Question 2

2 assumptions of median voter theorem

Answer 2

1) voters can place all alternatives on 1D political spectrum
2) voters preferences are single peaked and choose alternative closest to own view

Question 3

Limitations of MVT

Answer 3

Voters inability to directly amend legislation
Policies being voted on- too complex to be placed within 1D spectrum
-if voters are considering more than 1 issue simultaneously
Gov system is composed of self-interested individuals
-can’t guarantee degree they’re committed to common goal

Question 4

Cordorcet winner

Answer 4

An alternative that beats any other alternative in a pair wise majority rules election
Candidate is most preferred by voters

Question 5

Rational choice theory

Answer 5

Patterns of behaviour in societies reflect the choices made by individuals as they try to max their benefits and min costs

Question 6

R=Pb-C+D

Answer 6

Civic duty: reasons for voting beyond our immediate economic interest

Question 7

Explaining political participation: socioeconomic status

Answer 7

Status in society based on level of education, income and occupational prestige
Higher level of education etc = more likely to participate

Question 8

Explaining political participation: civic engagement

Answer 8

Sense of concern about public, social and political life

Citizens more engaged in civic life and active in communities are more likely to participate in politics

Question 9

Equivalency frames

Answer 9

Framing comprises a set of concepts and theoretical perspectives on how individuals, groups and societies organise, perceive and communicate about reality

Question 10

Calculating utility

Answer 10

Measuring distance between alternative y and ideal point xi