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Using the source, evaluate the view – with specific reference to at least one devolved region using an alternative electoral system – that the case for PR to replace the Westminster FPTP voting system has now been established - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 1
Using the source, evaluate the view – with specific reference to at least one devolved region using an alternative electoral system – that the case for PR to replace... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using the source, evaluate the view – with specific reference to at least one devolved region using an alternative electoral system – that the case for PR to replace the Westminster FPTP voting system has now been established - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Compare and contrast different opinions in the source
Answer
The source presents a mixed view on the effectiveness of the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) electoral system. On one hand, it highlights how FPTP has often failed to accurately reflect voter sentiments, resulting in governments that do not represent the electorate well. Specifically, it points out that in regions like Scotland and Wales, the Additional Member System (AMS) has allowed for more representative governance, reflecting a wider spectrum of political values. Conversely, the source acknowledges that FPTP maintains a clear and straightforward electoral process, which some argue fosters stability and simplicity in governance. However, the criticisms regarding the distortion of representation and the ‘losing the winner’ issue, notably in Northern Ireland, illustrate significant dissenting views regarding FPTP's utility.
Step 2
Examine and debate these views in a balanced way
Answer
Evaluating the views presented, one can argue that while FPTP provides simplicity, evident in how quickly results are declared, its failures in representation cannot be overlooked. The AMS in Scotland is cited as a successful alternative, showing that a mixed electoral system may better address the complexities of modern political realities. However, some critiques suggest that introducing systems like AMS can complicate the electoral process and may lead to coalition governments, which can be perceived as less decisive. This raises the question: is stability in governance at the expense of representation justifiable? Thus, a balanced debate reveals that while FPTP has its advantages, proportional representation methods may ultimately offer more inclusive governance.
Step 3
Make a judgment and evaluate only the information presented in the source
Answer
In evaluating the effectiveness of FPTP against proportional representation, particularly in the context of devolved regions, it becomes clear that the argument in favor of PR is compelling. The evidence suggests that PR systems like AMS and STV have successfully provided fairer representation in their respective regions. This contrasts sharply with the historical shortcomings of FPTP, particularly its tendency to yield skewed results in terms of electoral mandates. Therefore, based on the information presented, the case for replacing FPTP with a more proportional system in Westminster becomes increasingly justified, as PR appears to align more closely with democratic principles of representation.