Gord,
Much of your response was based on the notion that the European/Canadian
members of this list have endorsed proportional representation as a better
system of running elections. Correct me if I am wrong, however, but it is
my understanding that proportional representation applies only to
Parliament/Congress. That is, in a Parliament/Congress seats can be
awarded to parties which pull only a small percentage of the vote (as
opposed to strict winner-take-all geographic representatives from distinct,
non-overlapping constituencies.)
I don't see how this can be an option for a Presidency, which by its very
nature is filled by a single individual. Despite the name "electoral
*college*" it really isn't a body at all, but simply a unique way of
tallying up our votes.
As such, I stand by my characterization of these attacks on the electoral
college as a dangerous meme. Believing that all voters who do not vote
for the winner are somehow disenfranchised, or have casted non-worthwhile
votes, is, when carried to its logical extension, a direct threat to our
republic and system of government. Win or lose, it is the participation
in the process that counts.
JDG
P.S. More on this post later...... but Monday Night Football just ended,
and I am going to sleep. :)
_______________________________________________
John D. Giorgis - [EMAIL PROTECTED] - ICQ #3527685
"Now is not the Time for Third Chances,
It is a Time for New Beginnings."
- George W. Bush 8/3/00
******************VOTE BUSH / CHENEY 2000 *******************
