Caribbean Elections: Majority vs. Proportional

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Questions and Answers

Explain how 'political gerrymandering' can influence the outcome of an election in a majority election system?

Political gerrymandering involves strategically redrawing constituency boundaries to give one party an advantage, potentially leading to them winning seats they might not otherwise secure.

What is the fundamental difference in how representatives are chosen in a majority election system versus a proportional representation system?

In a majority system, voters select individual candidates within constituencies, with the winner taking all. In proportional representation, voters choose a party, and seats are allocated based on the proportion of votes received.

Why are small political parties more likely to gain representation in a proportional representation system compared to a majority election system?

Proportional representation allocates seats based on the percentage of votes a party receives, allowing even small parties to gain seats if they reach a certain threshold. Majority systems tend to favor larger parties that can win a majority in individual constituencies.

Outline a potential disadvantage of the proportional representation system related to the power of party leaders.

Party leaders often decide the order of candidates on the list in a proportional representation system, potentially overriding voters' preferences and leading to representatives who are not the voters' first choice. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how the structure of government in the Caribbean reflects the principle of the separation of powers.

The government is divided into three distinct branches: the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary. Each branch has its own functions and responsibilities, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of the Governor-General in a Caribbean nation like Jamaica, referencing their relationship to the monarch.

The Governor-General represents the monarch (Head of State) and performs ceremonial duties, appoints civil servants, and may exercise mercy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Privy Council of Jamaica?

The Privy Council advises the Governor-General. Their functions are usually limited to advising the Governor-General. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the potential for coalition governments could be viewed as both a disadvantage and an advantage of proportional representation.

Disadvantage: Coalition governments can be unstable due to differing party agendas. Advantage: They can lead to broader representation and compromise. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a potential scenario where a constituency might be neglected under a majority election system.

A constituency strongly supporting the opposition party might be neglected by the ruling party, as the government might focus resources on areas where they have a better chance of gaining or retaining support. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the proportional representation system eliminate the risk of gerrymandering?

Because the entire country is treated as one large constituency and seats are allocated based on the overall proportion of votes for each party, the drawing of individual constituency boundaries becomes irrelevant. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why the close relationship between voters and candidates in the majority system may foster better representation.

Because candidates are directly accountable to their constituents, there is more awareness of their needs, creating a sense of responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation in which the Governor-General of Jamaica might exercise mercy on behalf of the Queen.

Upon the advice of the Jamaican Privy Council, the Governor-General may lessen or overturn a criminal sentence based on considerations of justice or fairness. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of Jamaica being a constitutional monarchy within the British Commonwealth of Nations.

Jamaica recognizes the British monarch as head of state, represented by the Governor-General. This system integrates British traditions within an independent framework, with a constitution defining governmental powers and citizens' rights. Signup and view all the answers

How does the fixed number of constituencies (e.g., 63 in Jamaica) in a majority election system aim to stabilize parliamentary outcomes?

By fixing the number of constituencies, the system aims to prevent hung parliaments by making it mathematically more difficult for very close electoral divides to occur, promoting a clearer majority for one party. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the statement that Jamaica's constitution is 'primarily modelled on the Westminster-Whitehall (British) system of government'?

It means that Jamaica's governmental structure and principles, such as parliamentary democracy, the separation of powers, and a constitutional monarchy, are derived from the UK's system. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Majority Election System

A voting system where only one member of parliament is elected for each constituency.

Neglect of Opposition

A disadvantage where constituencies of the opposition may be neglected.