34: Representation and Electoral Systems

Jack Vowles, University of Exeter, j.vowles@exeter.ac.uk

This division welcomes paper, panel, and roundtable proposals on any aspect of representation and electoral systems that reflect the full range of the field's empirical, theoretical, and methodological diversity. In keeping with the 2009 conference theme, proposals exploring how global change and increasing social complexity present new challenges to forms of representation and electoral systems will be welcomed, particularly if they have relevance for policy, and/or can bring to bear innovations and new approaches in political science, both theoretical and methodological. The increasing use of forms of democratic deliberation to complement traditional forms of representative democracy might be one theme to be developed. In what senses are citizens' assemblies and citizens' juries 'representative', given various issues associated with their selection and the process in which they are engaged? Does it matter that they are not 'elected'? Can we have representation without election? While proposals focusing on established democracies are welcome, particular consideration will also be given to proposals addressing elections, electoral systems, and representation in new or emerging democracies.