The West German electoral system: The case for reform, 1949–87
- 1 July 1987
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis in West European Politics
- Vol. 10 (3) , 434-448
- https://doi.org/10.1080/01402388708424642
Abstract
Since the 1960s the question of electoral reform (specifically the introduction of a majority voting system) has not been a live issue in West Germany. The wide acceptance of proportional representation has much to do with changes in political culture ‐ a greater tolerance of conflict and less concern with stability. Foreign observers often treat the West German system as a model. However, the two‐vote system, although seen as maximising electoral choice, is seriously defective: it is confusing, encourages manipulation, and gives voters the false impression of having a greater degree of choice than is actually the case.Keywords
This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit:
- Parties, Opposition and Society in West GermanyPublished by Taylor & Francis ,2018
- A Short History of Electoral Systems in Western Europe (Routledge Library Editions: Political Science Volume 22)Published by Taylor & Francis ,2013
- Wahlrecht und ParteiensystemPublished by Springer Nature ,1986
- The field of electoral systems research: A critical surveyElectoral Studies, 1985
- Advances in the Comparative Study of Electoral SystemsWorld Politics, 1984
- Electoral Law Politics in West GermanyPolitical Studies, 1970