Exhaustive Study Notes on Political Systems and Electoral Representation

Introduction

  • The speaker discusses their local environment regarding the climate and the community involvement with children.

Informal Introduction

  • The speaker expresses casual conversation and connection with the audience.
    • Mention of favorite food (pizza and wings) and local restaurant (198 Tavern in Stranden).
    • Discussion about experiences and preferences related to seating in restaurants and personal height.

Classroom Concerns

Interaction with Students
  • The speaker addresses the students in a light-hearted manner about the classroom dynamic.
    • Comments on past classroom experiences with hockey players and debates among students.

Electoral Systems

Overview of Electoral Systems

  • Previous discussions focused on the impact of electoral systems on party representation.
  • Electoral Systems Create Party Systems: How different systems affect the number of political parties in a country.

Plurality vs. Proportional Representation

  • Plurality System:
    • Definition: Where the most votes win.
    • Results in a two-party system.
  • Proportional Representation System:
    • Definition: A voting system where parties gain seats in the legislature based on the percentage of votes received.
    • Example: If a party receives 10% of the votes, they receive 10% of the legislature.
    • Implications: Voters select a political party rather than individual candidates.

Voting Process in Proportional Representation

  • Voters cast ballots for political parties which submit lists of candidates.
    • Illustration: If a political party has 100 candidates and receives 10% of the vote, the top 10 candidates on their list receive seats.
    • These systems can lead to increased party control and accountability of elected officials.

Case Study: Netherlands and South Africa

Netherlands
  • Parliament of 150 Members
    • Description of the voting process in the Netherlands: voting for political parties on a national list.
South Africa
  • Mixed System: National list and regional list based on population.
    • Unique circumstances related to apartheid and ethnic based political parties.

Political Party Behavior and Control

  • Discussion on how proportional representation constrains candidate behavior.
  • Differences in party control between the United States and countries with proportional representation.
    • Focus on accountability and the consequences of deviating from party lines.

Historical Context in Political Systems

Importance of Historical Events

  • The significance of historical evolution in political systems, referencing colonial influences from Britain.
Roman Influence
  • The Roman invasion and its effects on British history and politics.
Viking Influence
  • The impact of the Vikings on English culture and society.
Anglo-Saxon Contributions
  • Contributions of the Anglo-Saxons to the English language and identity.
Norman Invasion
  • The establishment of common law and feudal systems in England post-Norman invasion.

Evolution of the Parliament in England

Historical Development

  • Overview of events leading to the gradual evolution of parliamentary power.
Magna Carta (1215)
  • Importance of the Magna Carta as a catalyst for parliamentary consultation.
Rise of the Monarchy and Henry VIII
  • The role of King Henry VIII in reinforcing parliamentary power.
    • His creation of the Church of England and conflict with the Pope.

The English Civil War

Details of Key Events

  • Explanation of the internal conflict between royalists and parliamentarians.
    • Leadership of Oliver Cromwell and King Charles I.
    • The resulting violence and its historical repercussions.