Is Direct Democracy a Kinder and Gentler Democracy?

Russell J. Dalton ； Steven Weldon

《Taiwan Journal of Democracy》 Special Issue (2013/05) Pp. 39-62

並列摘要

The enduring legacy of Arend Lijphart's research has been to plant the seed of political institutions research that has grown and evolved over the past half century. This model of representative democracy is facing increasing challenges as citizens press for new means of political access and influence. This essay examines a dimension of democracy-direct democracy-that has expanded since Lijphart's initial studies. We use the 2004 International Social Survey Program study to examine the impact of direct democracy on political efficacy, citizen participation in politics, and satisfaction with the workings of democracy, comparing its effects to the kinder and gentler democracy that Lijphart posited for consensual democracy. We find that direct democracy apparently stimulates political interest, but has a negative effect on election turnout. In addition, we find little direct evidence of effects on efficacy, participation beyond elections, or satisfaction with democracy at the aggregate level.

並列關鍵字

Direct democracy ； elections ； political participation ； majoritarian democracy ； consensual democracy

參考文獻

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