“Representative Democracy” implies that elected officials vote in accordance with the wishes of those who elect them. Political parties evolved so that individuals with similar views can join together to formulate policies which are then presented to the electorate for approval. Voters then determine which set of policies they want for their government and hire – through their ballot and taxes – those politicians which they believe will best implement those policies.
In many countries, such as the United States and Great Britain, the “electorate” consisted primarily of wealthy landowners but over many years and struggles, the majority of the population won the right to vote at a certain age. This “Universal Suffrage” does not mean that all those who are eligible to vote do so. Many feel that the major parties offer little choice and do not even bother to register.
In many countries, such as the United States and Great Britain, the “electorate” consisted primarily of wealthy landowners but over many years and struggles, the majority of the population won the right to vote at a certain age. This “Universal Suffrage” does not mean that all those who are eligible to vote do so. Many feel that the major parties offer little choice and do not even bother to register.
Nevertheless, they now have the Right to vote and as more and more people are needed to gain office, political campaigning has become more expensive. Politicians now finance their campaigns through corporate “donations” and the corporate elite have replaced the landed gentry in political influence.
Great Britain and the United States are excellent examples of this loss of “Popular Democracy”, as “Representative Government” takes on a new meaning.
Great Britain and the United States are excellent examples of this loss of “Popular Democracy”, as “Representative Government” takes on a new meaning.