Perspectives on British Politics

Who is Arend Lijphart?

A political scientist known for writing 'Patterns of Democracy' and for categorizing democracies based on their rules and practices.

• Westminster model is his prototype majoritarian system/ clearest example of it in practice 

• UK is the most famous example of this westminster model/majoritarian reality

What are the two types of democracy Lijphart compares?

Majoritarian democracy and consensus democracy.

What is the Westminster model?

A majoritarian political system characterized by a parliamentary government where the executive is fused with the legislative branch.

What primarily characterizes a majoritarian system?

Unitary (all power rests at the top) and centralized power, typically with a unicameral legislature and winner-takes-all elections.

What defines a consensus democracy?

A federal and decentralized system that includes power-sharing, strong bicameralism, and proportional representation.

What are some advantages of majoritarianism according to Lijphart?

Clear choices for voters, quick policymaking, and no divided government.

What is a disadvantage of majoritarianism?

Exclusion of minority views leading to the tyranny of the majority and less pluralism.

What is an example of a majoritarian electoral system?

First Past the Post (FPTP).

What is emphasized in Lijphart's critique of majoritarian systems?

The consensus model may provide a higher quality of democracy compared to majoritarianism.

What critique does Lijphart offer regarding the Westminster model?

It is criticized for exaggerating majorities, concentrating power, and limiting pluralism.

What role does constitutional flexibility play in majoritarian systems?

It allows for quick and responsive policymaking but may lack transparency and written rules.

How does the Westminster model address the head of state?

The head of state is largely symbolic, with real power residing in the elected parliament.

What system has the UK historically used in governance?

The UK has historically employed the Westminster model, highlighting a parliamentary system and majoritarian electoral processes.

What is one way to describe the cabinet in a majoritarian system?

Single party cabinet representing a two-party system predominately.

What does Lijphart suggest about the quality of democracy in majoritarian vs consensus models?

He argues that consensus models are generally superior in terms of quality and decision-making in democracy.

What has remained constant in the UK since the 1980s according to the lecture?

The parliamentary system, majoritarian electoral system, and unicameral legislature.

What are some critiques related to representation in the Westminster model?

It has weak representation, particularly for BAME communities and women.