[EM] Re: Alexander, don't get stuck in a `Time Warp':

[Alexander Small]

First of all, I thought the response of Adam Tarr was excellent.

Second, to Mr. Davison:

>From what I've seen there is something to be admired in the CVD.  They were
founded by an important presidential candidate, they seem to have chapters
in many states, and they seem to be up on legislative developments.  This
suggests some amount of organization and effort.

Since I share their general goal of improved election methods, and respect
them as an organization, it seemed reasonable to contemplate joining
(although I have since decided to save $15).  I never thought "If I join
they'll have to change."  I simply thought "Maybe if many people who share
most of their goals join and work with them, in the ensuing exchange of
ideas either the CVD folks will decide that other methods are superior, or
they will raise a point that will cause IRV opponents to reconsider.
Either way, in that marketplace of ideas only good can result."

Second, you are quite condescending towards anybody who has decided IRV is
not the ideal method (although I would definitely take it over plurality,
and vote for it without hesitation if such a ballot initiative came up).  I
won't try to persuade you that Condorcet is superior to IRV, but I will
suggest that from any rational standpoint it is a reasonable method with
motivations quite similar to IRV:

Both methods have majoritarian criteria.  IRV sees who can survive a series
of elimination rounds and come out with a majority.  Condorcet looks to see
who can survive a series of one-on-one mathups and win a majority each
time, or at least select among those who win a majority "most of the time"
(make it to the inner-most unbeaten set).  Even if you believe that IRV is
superior, Condorcet is hardly a naive, immature method.  It is a reasonable
proposal for holding a series of contests, and we can debate on a variety
of grounds which is superior.

Before I go:  I'm working on making yesterday's post on power in voting
blocs more rigorous.  Look for a post in the next week or so.

Alex Small