Why is representation important?

Question

legislature branch

Answer 1

The real theory behind it is to allow all people a voice in Government. Of course that is just a theory. In practice it seems more that this is an issue of limiting government without giving up the idea of having a voice.

Answer 2

Without representation, either the electorate would be required to more fully understand the intricate details of governance or we would be subjected to the will of a despot or dictator. If citizens represented themselves, every decision would have to be put to a referendum and the specific details would have to be presented, negotiated and resolved based on a process that requires all of us to spend a lot more time researching and understanding the issues.

I live in the District of Columbia so I currently don't have representation in the U.S. Congress. I don't have anyone in Congress that can advocate for my views and listen to my concerns when I disagree with actions proposed in front of the Congress. All of this while Congress has oversight of DC and can veto laws passed by the citizens and their elected officials. In 1998, D.C. voters passed a medical-marijuana initiative but a congressional amendment to the D.C. appropriations bill stopped it from taking effect.

This is what happens when we deny representation to any group of citizens.

Answer 3

Because othewise the government could do whatever the hell they wanted and ruin our lives.

If I can't go to congress, I at least one someone that shares my views to.

Answer 4

For the fatcats, it's important to limit the number of people they have to bribe.

Answer 5

Would you prefer to have laws passed by people that had no form of accountability to the people?

Answer 6

because they know the ins and outs of the system. also, the experience of public speaking, etc.