About this Research Topic

Background

Proportional representation is a pivotal concept in electoral systems, designed to ensure that the composition of elected bodies, such as parliaments, accurately reflects the preferences of the electorate. Since the 19th century, various voting systems have been developed to achieve proportional representation, primarily categorized into party list systems and single transferable vote systems. Despite the extensive research and application of these systems, there remain significant questions and challenges. For instance, while Duverger's law suggests that proportional representation fosters multi-party systems, the nuances of how different systems impact political dynamics and governance structures are still under exploration. Recent studies have provided insights into the advantages and limitations of these systems, yet the complexity of their implementation and the diverse political contexts in which they operate highlight the need for further investigation. Current debates focus on optimizing these systems to enhance democratic representation and address the evolving needs of societies.

This research topic aims to delve into the multifaceted aspects of proportional representation, examining its implementation, consequences, and the ongoing debates surrounding its efficacy. The objective is to address key questions such as: What are the most effective methods of proportional representation? How do these methods influence political party dynamics and governance? What historical and contemporary factors affect the adoption and adaptation of these systems? By exploring these questions, the research seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of proportional representation and its role in modern democracies.

To gather further insights into the complexities and implications of proportional representation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Classification of methods of proportional representation
• Properties, advantages, and disadvantages of various methods
• Consequences of using different methods for government, political parties, and society
• Methods of implementation, improvements, and parameter choices
• Historical use and evolution of proportional representation
• Support and opposition to proportional representation and its various methods.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Proportional representation, Party list based proportional representation, Single transferable vote, Largest remainder method, d'Hondt method

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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