These question swill be designed your knowledge of the definitions and implications of the major concepts we
have covered in the class. The ideal answer will first describe these major concepts (such as electoral
systems) and then provide an informed discussion about the potential implications of them. The answers
should be long enough to contain detailed information about the characteristics and implications of major
concepts. Although I encourage you to provide your own opinion when possible, it is important to note
that the ideal answer will rely heavily on the slides (rather than personal opinions). •
Explain the Cartel Party Thesis. How (and why) did the use of public money to fund political
parties lead to ‘Cartel Parties’ ?
•
Explain the two important dimensions in candidate selection procedures (inclusiveness/exclusiveness
in candidacy and the select orate). Why are these two dimensions important?
Compare and contrast Two-Round Ballot System, PR systems (closed and open), Single-Transferable
Vote, FPTP (also called SMP) systems. Which systems are more efficient (little room for opposi-
tion), representative (more proportionate results), and simple (for voters)? Which systems create
a stronger link between the representative and the voter? Which systems favor larger parties? In
which systems personal vote earning attributes (i.e., personal reputation) are minimized?
•
Describe the history, functions and characteristics of the major EU institutions? What role do
they play in the policy making process?
•
What does the ‘democratic deficit’ mean in the European context? What are the pros and cons of
having a European parliament and commission? How do Europeans perceive these institutions?
•
It is often hypothesized that politicians are either policy-oriented or office-oriented. What type
of politicians (policy or office seekers) are more likely to form oversized or minority coalition
governments, and why?
1
•
Compare and contrast the types of governments (single-party, minimal winning coalition, surplus
majority, single-party minority and minority governments) in terms of their survival rates (I will
provide the statistical data on survival rates). What does explain low and high survival rates in
Western Europe?
•
Explain the main characteristics of European populist parties? Are they right or left wing (or
both)? What do they seek to achieve? What are the leading examples of populist parties in
Europe?
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