Proportional Representation Applied To Party Government by T. R. (Thomas Ramsden) Ashworth;H. P. C. Ashworth
page 30 of 183 (16%)
page 30 of 183 (16%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
(_b_) The fair representation of all parties in proportion to their
strength. (_c_) Perfect freedom to every elector to vote exactly as he pleases. (_d_) The emancipation of the voters from the tyranny of the political "boss" or caucus. (_e_) The full value of his vote to each voter without loss or waste. The principles involved, we are assured, "must appeal to every democrat, to every Liberal, to every lover of true and just representation." As to the first claim, we are willing to grant the rule of the majority, if the words are added "in the interests of minorities." The second could also be granted if by "all parties" were meant both parties, for there cannot be more than two parties in the true sense of the word. But Professor Nanson proposes such large electorates that any small section, from one-sixth to one-twelfth, can secure independent representation. Notwithstanding this, he claims that it is quite possible to give fair representation to the main parties and to small sections at the same time. In illustrating the system he avoids the issue as to the character of these sections by giving them a "scientific" nomenclature, such as Colour, Place, Pursuits, Qualities, &c. These abstractions are very misleading, as attention is diverted from the fact that they refer to voluntary groups of men united for some political purpose. The real question is, on what basis are these groups likely to be formed? When the element of human nature is taken into account it must be apparent |
|