The 2000 election showed that the mechanics of voting such as
ballot design, can make a critical difference in the accuracy and
fairness of our elections. But as Dennis F. Thompson shows, even
more fundamental issues must be addressed to insure that our
electoral system is just.
Thompson argues that three central democratic principles--equal
respect, free choice, and popular sovereignty--underlie our
electoral institutions, and should inform any assessment of the
justice of elections. Although we may all endorse these principles
in theory, Thompson shows that in practice we disagree about their
meaning and application. He shows how they create conflicts among
basic values across a broad spectrum of electoral controversies,
from disagreements about term limits and primaries to disputes
about recounts and presidential electors.
To create a fair electoral system, Thompson argues, we must
deliberate together about these principles and take greater control
of the procedures that govern our elections. He demonstrates how
applying the principles of justice to electoral practices can help
us answer questions that our electoral system poses: Should race
count in redistricting? Should the media call elections before the
polls close? How should we limit the power of money in elections?
Accessible and wide ranging, "Just Elections" masterfully weaves
together the philosophical, legal, and political aspects of the
electoral process. Anyone who wants to understand the deeper issues
at stake in American elections and the consequences that follow
them will need to read it.
In answering these and other questions, Thompson examines the
arguments that citizens and their representativesactually use in
political forums, congressional debates and hearings, state
legislative proceedings, and meetings of commissions and local
councils. In addition, the book draws on a broad range of
literature: democratic theory, including writings by Madison,
Hamilton, and Tocqueville, and contemporary philosophers, as well
as recent studies in political science, and work in election law.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate?
Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image?
Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories?
Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!
Welcome to Loot.co.za!
Sign in / Register |Wishlists & Gift Vouchers |Help | Advanced search
