Models of Representation

Types of Representation

• Descriptive Representation

  • Definition: Representation based on shared characteristics (e.g., race, gender)

  • Example: Gender quotas in legislatures

• Substantive Representation

  • Definition: Representation based on advocacy for specific interests or policies

  • Example: Politicians supporting environmental legislation

• Symbolic Representation

  • Definition: Representation that conveys values or ideas rather than direct interests

  • Example: National symbols or figures

Theoretical Models

• Instructed Delegate Model:

  • must vote as constituency wishes

• Delegate Model

  • Definition: Representatives act strictly according to the wishes of their constituents

  • Implications for democratic accountability

• Trustee Model

  • Definition: Representatives make decisions based on their judgment and expertise

  • Balancing constituent interests with broader societal needs

• Politico Model

  • Definition: A hybrid approach where representatives act as delegates on some issues and trustees on others

  • Flexibility in representation based on context

Challenges to Representation

• Underrepresentation

  • Groups often marginalized (e.g., minorities, women)

  • Consequences for democracy and social justice

• Misrepresentation

  • Stereotyping and inaccurate portrayals

  • Impact on societal attitudes and behaviors

• Overrepresentation

  • Dominance of certain groups in decision-making

  • Risks of elitism and exclusion

Ideological Divisions

What were the original ideological divisions we talked about?

Federalism vs. Anti-Federalism

What are some ideologies which divide us today?

Conservatives vs Liberals

• Liberalism

• Conservatism

• Socialism

• Libertarianism

• Populism

Republican vs Democrat

• Liberalism

• Conservatism

• Socialism

• Libertarianism

• Populism

B. Economic Ideologies

• Capitalism

• Socialism

• Communism

• Mixed economies

C. Cultural Ideologies

• Nationalism

• Globalism

• Feminism

• Environmentalism

• Cultural differences

• Historical grievances

• Education and information access

• Media influence

A. Social Impact

• Polarization in communities

• Erosion of social trust

• Increased conflict and tension

B. Political Impact

• Partisan gridlock

• Rise of extremist movements

• Challenges in governance and policy-making

C. Economic Impact

• Divergent economic policies

• Inequality and class struggle

A. United States

• Partisan divide in politics

• Cultural wars (e.g., abortion, gun control)

Gridlock and GovernmentWhen the Houses of Congress are in gridlock, nothing can get done. This is why the push to gain majority power in both Houses is so fierce.How does it work? United Government = Same majority party in both houses, lots of progressDivided Government: Different majority parties in both houses means nothing gets doneLame Duck President: Different majority party in Congress and the White House, chambers won’t work with POTUS