Proportional vs majoritarian: which type of electoral system do you prefer ?

The electoral system shapes how a democracy works. Here you have the opportunity to vote on how we should all vote.

The electoral system define how people vote, how these votes are counted and how the outcome of the election is established. The electoral systems have an important impact on how representative democracy works. The rules of voting affect voters’ behaviour and also the composition of the representative institutions. There are different electoral systems in different countries.

Proportional vs Majoritarian

Broadly speaking, electoral systems tend to be "proportional" or "majoritarian". In proportional systems the number of seats that each party receives in the parliaments or  assemblies is proportional to the votes received. The basic principle is representation; the composition of the parliaments or assemblies should mirror the views of society. In majoritarian systems the representation is not proportional to the votes obtained. Majoritarian or plurality systems usually have single-member or small size districts. Parties that receive more votes obtain a percentage of seats that is higher than the percentage of votes they receive. Conversely, small parties usually receive a smaller share of seats than that of votes. Majoritarian systems. They are supposed to create stable single-party governments that can govern without needing the support of other parties.

For an explanation of how electoral systems work watch this video:

There are important trade-offs between the two broad type of electoral systems. According to what you consider to be the most important features of democracy you may choose one over the other. Should 16-year olds be allowed to vote? 

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