‘Yes’, because AV allows voters to express detailed opinions on all candidates, without the distortion of tactical voting. The difference between a first preference and no ranking at all is real and meaningful under AV, and should make voters’ views much clearer. Also, in order to win under AV candidates have to secure the consensus support of a majority. This means candidates will need to reach out positively and appeal to everyone – not just the party faithful. It should mean that both campaigning and representation is taken more seriously, and that failure on either count will make (re)-election impossible.
(PS - it was more or less impossible not to make at least implicit reference to FPTP in the above, as this is inherently a comparative question. But I've done my best.)
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momijizukamori
no subject
Date: 2011-03-27 12:52 pm (UTC)(PS - it was more or less impossible not to make at least implicit reference to FPTP in the above, as this is inherently a comparative question. But I've done my best.)