Thursday, June 27, 2013

Plurality Voting vs. the Market, Will the Real Democracy Please Stand Up?

Plurality voting gives the majority their preference, in that they prefer the winner to the loser. Those who determine what choices appear on the ballot or how they appear can exert influence on the outcome. The minority lose, most of (all?) the effort they expended toward promoting their view is wasted, and they must put up with the result.
The market allows each to choose what they prefer, and to switch at any time. If what I prefer is not available, I can start a business and try to provide it myself. Possibilities are limited by technological knowledge and what will sell, not by the disapproval of others.
Which is more democratic, a majority dictating to a minority, or each person choosing for herself?

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