Voting methods are often a subject in discrete math or finite math textbooks. So this is a math subject. It involves logic, game theory and some inequalities.
In a plurality system, the candidate with the most votes wins. So the election has a definite outcome. However the way a new government is formed depends on the political system. If a majority is needed to enact legislation then coalitions form between minority parties. Hence politics can be quite complex and it is at risk of being held hostage by small but powerful factions. The U.S.A. does not have a parliamentary system. However IMO actual legislation has always depended on back room deals, horse trading and political pork. Hence the old saying that sausages and legislation are two things you do not want to see being made.
?
2016-12-12 13:49:59 UTC
The Plurality Method
Ian H
2015-10-17 04:45:43 UTC
This is a maths website, whereas this is a political question.
However, we try to help ......
The Plurality method is the method of voting used in the UK. It has been called “first past the post”. The election of each member of parliament is decided by counting up votes and is based on one vote from every registered citizen in a given constituency. Then the political party with the most elected MPs forms a new government. The main advantage often quoted is that it tends to favour a strong and decisive government whereas for example coalitions can be bogged down in compromise and indecision so that little gets done and the policies seem confused to the public.
Critics of the plurality system point out that the system depends to some extent on how the constituencies are allocated, so that many more votes are required to elect someone in one area than in another.
There are many other systems with various pros and cons, but probably no ideal system to satisfy all wishes. Compare the Condorcet and the Majority Criterion described here.
http://www.eprisner.de/MAT107/Voting/Voting1.html
Barry G
2015-10-17 04:19:33 UTC
What is the plurality method? Try Google.
ⓘ
This content was originally posted on Y! Answers, a Q&A website that shut down in 2021.