Theory question 104
Franchise, Elections and Electoral SystemsSection A (answer two questions from this section)
What is proportional representation? Discuss its merits and demerits.
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Definition: an electoral system in which parties win seats in proportion to the votes they get (e.g. list system, single transferable vote), usually in multi-member constituencies.
Merits: fair representation of parties according to votes; minorities and small parties are represented; fewer wasted votes; reduces domination by one party; encourages wider participation.
Demerits: complicated for voters and officials to understand and count; often produces coalition and unstable governments; encourages many small parties; weak link between a member and a constituency; strengthens party bosses (list system); costly.
Explain at least three merits and three demerits.