[EM] The meaning of a vote (or lack thereof)

[Jameson Quinn]

2011/8/31 Fred Gohlke <fredgohlke at verizon.net>

> Good Afternoon, Mr. Quinn
>
> On Mon, 29 Aug 2011 @ 07:25:31 you cited a portion of Michael Allan's Sun,
> 28 Aug 2011 @ 23:24:48 post to me, to wit:
>
>
>  "...  But if we (this is my hope) can cogently demonstrate this
>   failing to the experts in this list, especially in terms of
>   the voting mechanisms they understand so well, then they will
>   be more open to drawing the larger conclusions that seem so
>   obvious to you and me, and I daresay others in this list."
>
> and offered this comment:
>
>
>  "I've been trying to avoid entering this sub-thread, as I think
>   it's mostly angels-on-pinheads stuff, but if you actually have
>   a point, I suggest you make it, rather than portentiously
>   musing on how it depends on a supposedly-proven, but still-
>   debated claim."
>
> Current events on this list should make the point adequately:
>
> Richard Fobes proposed a 'Declaration of Election-Method Experts and
> Enthusiasts'.  Everyone on the list can participate in honing the
> declaration, to the full extent of their desire and ability.  That's the
> democratic approach.
>
> If, instead, groups of elites proposed versions of the declaration and told
> list members to choose between them, that would be profoundly undemocratic.
>  That's the party-based approach.
>
> I believe (and I think Michael shares this view) an electoral method that
> embodies the concept of the former, giving every member of the electorate an
> opportunity to participate in the electoral process to the full extent of
> their desire and ability, is possible, practical and necessary.


First, thank you for responding, I finally understand what you are getting
at.

Second, I agree. But I do not think that you can thereby conclude that any
method which does not reach all those goals is thereby useless. In fact, I
think that such imperfect methods are necessary stepping stones to your
vision.

JQ


>
>
> Fred Gohlke
>
>
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>
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