A classification of electoral systems including single-member district, multi-member district, and proportional representation systems.
Overview
Electoral Systems
Electoral systems are classified based on the method of electing representatives. The three main systems are: single-member district system (electing one representative per district), multi-member district system (electing multiple representatives per district), and proportional representation system (allocating seats according to vote share). Japan's House of Representatives uses a parallel system combining single-member districts and proportional representation, achieving both governmental stability and diverse representation of public opinion. Each system has its unique advantages and disadvantages, and appropriate systems are selected depending on the country and era.
electoral system
politics
democracy
parliament
election
voting
| code | slug | name | description | category | features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | single-member-district | Single-Member District System | A system where one representative is elected from each electoral district. | District-based System | ["Governmental stability","Close voter-candidate relationship","Wasted votes occur easily","Favors major parties"] |
| 02 | multi-member-district | Multi-Member District System | A system where multiple representatives are elected from each electoral district. | District-based System | ["Fewer wasted votes","Reflects minority opinions","Intra-party competition","Higher election costs"] |
| 03 | proportional-representation | Proportional Representation System | A system where seats are allocated in proportion to each party's vote share. | Proportional Representation | ["Seat allocation by vote share","Seats for minor parties","Fewer wasted votes","Risk of governmental instability"] |
| 04 | parallel-system | Parallel System (Mixed-Member Majoritarian) | A parallel system combining single-member districts and proportional representation. | Mixed System | ["Combines advantages of both systems","Dual candidacy allowed","Resurrection election system","Two ballots"] |
| 05 | medium-member-district | Medium-Member District System | A type of multi-member district system electing 3-5 members per district. | District-based System | ["Type of multi-member district","Single non-transferable vote","Used in House of Representatives until 1994","Fostered factional politics"] |