Proportional representation without multiparty politics

I have a new essay with John Ketcham, “Reforming Big-City Elections.” In it, we argue that the two-party system makes its own case for party-list-based forms of proportional representation. Our argument differs from the usual one based on Duverger’s law.

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Draft final essay prompt

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Schattschneider (1942: 191) expresses deep skepticism about the ability of “public opinion” to hold government accountable. He goes on to argue for more internally disciplined political parties. Please evaluate this diagnosis and prescription in view of what you have learned this semester. Success does not mean citing everything. Rather, you should cite the readings that are relevant to your argument. Please confine your answer to 750-1,500 words. The usual guidelines apply.

Two cases for parties, one of which is more persuasive to a person on the street

This post’s purpose is to put down thoughts related to a conversation I had last night. One point concerns the defense of parties. Another concerns the nature and explanation of the two-party system.

A poll I ran on Twitter from August 28-9, 2024.
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