Question

Difficulty: HardElectoral Systems and Their Characteristics

Match each electoral system listed on the left with its precise operational mechanism or counting rule on the right.

  • Alternative Vote (Preferential System)Operates in single-member districts where voters rank candidates in order of preference until a candidate secures an absolute majority (>50%>50\%) through successive elimination and vote redistribution.
  • Single Transferable Vote (STV)Operates in multi-member constituencies where candidates are elected by reaching a calculated electoral quota via voter preference rankings and surplus vote redistribution.
  • First-Past-The-Post (Plurality System)Requires a candidate to obtain a relative majority of votes cast in single-member constituencies, irrespective of whether an absolute majority is attained.
  • Second Ballot (Run-off System)Requires a supplementary election between the top two contenders if no single candidate achieves an absolute majority (>50%>50\%) in the primary poll.

Answer

Alternative Vote matches the single-member preferential voting mechanism with vote redistribution to achieve an absolute majority. Single Transferable Vote matches the multi-member constituency system utilizing an electoral quota. First-Past-The-Post matches the single-member relative majority requirement. Second Ballot matches the requirement for a supplementary run-off election when no candidate receives an absolute majority in the initial round.
Each electoral system is correctly matched based on its core voting formula and district composition: Alternative Vote uses preferential ranking in single-member districts to reach an absolute majority; Single Transferable Vote uses preference ranking in multi-member districts with a calculated quota; First-Past-The-Post awards victory to the highest vote getter in single-member districts regardless of majority; and Second Ballot requires a run-off election when no candidate obtains an absolute majority in the first round.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the district structure and vote distribution method for Alternative Vote
Alternative Vote is confined to single-member districts and uses preferential ranking to reach an absolute majority (>50%>50\%).
Identify the defining preferential single-member mechanism.
2
Analyze the features of Single Transferable Vote
STV operates exclusively in multi-member constituencies and relies on an electoral quota to allocate seats proportionally.
Distinguish STV from majoritarian preferential systems by its multi-member setting.
3
Analyze the winning criteria of First-Past-The-Post
FPTP requires only a plurality (highest vote total), not an absolute majority.
Separate relative majority rules from absolute majority requirements.
4
Analyze the mechanism of the Second Ballot system
Second Ballot mandates a two-stage polling process if the initial vote fails to produce a candidate with over 50%50\% of the votes.
Identify the run-off feature unique to two-round majoritarian elections.

Key Concept

Operational Mechanics and Classification of Electoral Systems
Estimated Time:2m 0s
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