Representation PDF

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Representation...

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Representation 1. What are the difference between the trustee or delegate model of representation?

What is represented?

The nature of interest, welfare or wishes.

Relative capacity of representative and constituents.

Nature of issues.

Independence: Trustee If you are representing a person that doesn’t exist and is a mix of opinions there is little incentive to consult the represented. If constituents have an interest they are unaware of that is more important than, and contradicts their spoken wished, trustee can override them. If the represented has superior knowledge they should be trusted over ignorant inferiors. If the issue has correct objectively valid answers the expert representative should over rule uninformed constituents.

Mandate: Delegate The opinion of the represented people is more relevant.

If only a person truly knows their own wants and interest then the representative should listen to the constituents. If representatives and constituents have similar wisdom capacities then all views should be taken into account. If options are arbitrary, prone to choice, then the constituent opinion is more relevant.

2. What are the key features of representation to Pitkin?          

“Acting in the interest of the represented, in a manner responsive to them.” (Pitkin, 1967:209) Must be independent, he is the one that acts with discretion and judgement. Must be capable of initiative, not just reacting. Must not conflict with constituents, without explanation of acting against their interest. Participation is an overall structure in institutional arrangements involving many people and groups not an individual’s actions. It is a pattern of behaviour from many activities and people. Representation if the people are present but not acting. It is a system not controlled by the people but partially reactive to them without conflicting their wishes. The people really do act through the government in a true representative democracy, they are not passive acceptors. They can initiate government activity, there has to be system in place to allow this to foster. The more representatives sees issues as things with empirical answers based on knowledge the less likely they are to listen to constituents.

Burke’s account of the trustee in representation (Burke works 1:446-48)

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Must be close to constituents, communicate constantly, put their opinion above his own, sacrifice his own business and pleasure.  Must not sacrifice his judgement that he was selected for. Must remain in touch with the constituency. He must remember he is in a parliament omitted to finding the interest of the whole, which includes his own constituents, so not to push his judgement/power over and above others. He has to realise opinions from constituents may also be against the will of the country....