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Proportional Representation. 1 st past- the- post electoral system stands as the biggest stumbling block to ensuring that governments and the laws they pass represent the will of the majority .
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Proportional Representation • 1st past- the- post electoral system stands as the biggest stumbling block to ensuring that governments and the laws they pass represent the will of the majority. • **Under this system the number of seats a party wins is in direct proportion to the number of votes it gets in the election. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDb9f7emxXg
Proportional Representation • Advantages • The system is more democratic than the “winner take all” system. FPTP • Small political parties are encouraged • Higher voter turnout • Disadvantages • It can be difficult for one party to form a majority government if three or more parties are running. • The party that receives the largest vote count may not form the government. • Coalition governments or minority governments are often necessary.
READ PAGES 343-345 Questions 1, 2, 3 chart Examining Proportional Representation
Disadvantages “Is Proportional Representation” effective? Advantages
Voter Turnout • Low voter turnout is a problem that plagues all democracies. • If in a democracy power resides with the people; what do you do when people choose not to exercise their power? • Draw fig. 10-14 and fig 10-15 into your notes. • What effect do you think voter age has on government policy?
Mandatory Voting Australia p.348-49 • Do you think mandatory voting would help increase the voter turnout rate in Canada? Use some of the questions and answers in the Mac Harb interview to defend your position. • Word document
The best argument against democracy is a five minute conversation with the average voter. Winston Churchill What do you think Churchill was implying about the average voter?
READ PAGES 341 342 TAKE GOOD NOTES ON THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT.
CHECKS AND BALANCES OF THE AMERICAN POLITICAL SYSTEM http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0774721.html