Models & Maps

Different electoral systems have predictable effects. That's why most political scientists agree broadly on their results and effects, only disagreeing (when they do) on their comparative value. The following population model and associated maps have been created to showcase those effects, but that doesn't mean they are over-engineered for that purpose. As described in the introduction, there are three cohesive interest/political groups, none with a majority, each with at least 20% support. On the map, they are clustered differently in different parts of AnyCityAnyState, but never shift from there. Single-districts are compact and regular, and unchanging - this is not about gerrymandering... except to investigate whether proportional systems using multi-member districts are resistant or immune to it, as believed. To this static picture, shifting political alliances are also accounted for, when a given electoral system allows for consideration of second preferences. The sections on proportional and semi-proportional systems appear as separate documents below the overall analysis, for your convenience.

Electoral Systems: Navigating the Maze