Theory question 103
Franchise, Elections and Electoral SystemsSection A: Elements of Government
Highlight three merits and any three demerits of a simple majority system of voting.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Merits (any three): simple to understand and operate; results are quick and easy to count; cheap to run; usually produces a clear winner and stable government; avoids weak coalitions; links each representative clearly to a constituency, so he is accountable.
Demerits (any three): a candidate can win with fewer than half the votes; votes for losing candidates are wasted; small parties and minorities are under-represented; seat share may not match vote share; encourages gerrymandering; can encourage rigging and ethnic voting.
Explanation
Three of each.