Two Types of Democracies

List Arend Liiphart’s differen types of democracies.

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Arend Lijphart, a prominent political scientist, identified two primary types of democracies in his work, especially in his influential book Patterns of Democracy. These types are based on how power is distributed and decisions are made within democratic systems:


1. Majoritarian (Westminster) Model of Democracy:

This type emphasizes majority rule and tends to concentrate power. It is often found in countries with a strong tradition of unified governance.

Key Features:

  • Concentration of executive power: Typically, a single-party majority government.
  • Executive dominance: The executive branch is dominant over the legislature.
  • Two-party system: A political landscape dominated by two major parties.
  • Majoritarian electoral system: Such as first-past-the-post voting, favoring larger parties.
  • Unitary government: Centralized power, with minimal regional autonomy.
  • Unicameral legislature: Either a single legislative chamber or a weak upper house.
  • Flexible constitutions: Easier to amend, often not entrenched.
  • Absence of judicial review: Parliamentary sovereignty prevails.
  • Central bank dependency: Central banks are often under political control.

Examples:

  • United Kingdom
  • New Zealand (pre-MMP reforms)

2. Consensus Model of Democracy:

This type aims for broader representation and power-sharing, focusing on inclusiveness and proportionality.

Key Features:

  • Power-sharing in executive coalitions: Broad coalitions that include multiple parties.
  • Balance of power: Executive and legislature are more equal in influence.
  • Multi-party system: A diverse array of political parties.
  • Proportional representation electoral system: Encouraging minority representation.
  • Federal or decentralized government: Significant autonomy for regions or states.
  • Bicameral legislature: Two chambers with roughly equal power.
  • Rigid constitutions: Difficult to amend, often entrenched.
  • Judicial review: A strong judiciary can review legislation and government actions.
  • Independent central banks: Operating independently of political influence.

Examples:

  • Switzerland
  • Belgium
  • European Union governance

These models reflect two poles on a spectrum rather than rigid categories, and many democracies exhibit features of both. Lijphart’s analysis highlights how institutional design influences the functioning and inclusivity of democratic systems.

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