All the time I am thinking about alternative forms of government. So I'd like to bounce some ideas off fellow forumites in this thread. First cab of the rank is........
Flexible terms.
One thing that I notice about democracy in Western Nations especially the Anglosphere is that periodic elections are seen as an annoyance that needs to be tolerated. The population at large has only experienced democracy and just takes elections as a given.
WI electoral terms of office last until a petition signed by 25% of all voters is lodged with a proper authority ( i.e. Supreme Ct, or in constituational monarchies, the monarch) which then sets an election date in 2 to 3 months.
The only other way an election can be called is if the elected offical resigns.
The reasoning about this is let the people develop a hunger for an election then they will participate more deeply and value their vote more.
Of course if this were to work their needs to be a protection against the Government or elected officals from interfering in the recall petition process.
If this were to used in America I would see it used on a statewide basis. Where a valid petition is lodged in each state a fresh election would held for its congressional delegation. As for the President there would be a nationwide petition.
If this were to be used in Britain the same would apply only a on a nationwide basis. However I would let the PM still have the right to dissolve the Parliament for fresh elections.
Now, Forumites what would happen if this were used ?
Would this make democracy more valued and would this induce more participation in elections ?
Does this provide greater opportunity for abuse of the Democratic system ? If so how?
What would politics in general be like ?
Fire away !