Elections are a formal way for groups to choose who will hold public office and, in some places, which policies to support. This lesson explains what elections are and why they matter to representative democracy.
An election is a formal decision-making process in which a group chooses individuals to hold public office. Elections can take place at many scales. Students might elect a class or student-body representative, while citizens in a national election may choose a president or legislators.
All flashcards
What is an election?
A formal decision-making process in which a group selects individuals to hold public office; in some places, voters also choose among policy preferences.
How do elections support representative democracy?
They let citizens select representatives and policies, while giving elected officials a reason to pay attention to the electorate if they want to remain in office.
What does it mean to comparison shop in an election?
Voters compare candidates’ objectives and plans so they can choose the option that best matches their preferences.
How can electoral competition affect candidates?
Competition encourages candidates to persuade voters and to be open about their objectives and plans.
Name two forms of election-related civic engagement besides voting.
People can help register voters, volunteer at polling places, or support a preferred candidate’s campaign.
Quiz questions
What is an election?Answer: A formal process in which a group chooses public officials and sometimes policies.
Why can frequent elections support representative democracy?Answer: They let citizens choose representatives and give officials incentives to remain responsive.
What does adverse selection describe in an electoral context?Answer: An information imbalance that makes it difficult for voters to judge candidates or proposals.
What is voter suppression?Answer: Practices or policies that discourage or prevent specific groups from voting.
What does voter turnout measure?Answer: The number or share of eligible voters who cast a ballot.
Based on Introduction to Political Science by Mark Carl Rom, Masaki Hidaka, Rachel Bzostek Walker (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.