Why have many countries introduced a proportional element to their electoral system?

Question

Which electoral system would you prefer? Why?

Answer 1

Because proportional systems mean the overall voting pattern is more accurately represented in the result.

Personally, I prefer the STV system as it delivers the best overall result.

Answer 2

I am living in a country where proportional representation
is the norm, as it is in most mainland Western European countries in one form or another.
I think we choose these forms as it reflects the fairest way of
representing the ideas and standpoints of the people.
It inevitably leads to a variety of Political Parties who in general are forced to cooperate to form a majority and
construct a coalition government.
To prevent a splintering of political parties some countries
impose a treshhold (5% in Germany) which parties must cross to be allowed to take seats in Parliament.
Coalition governments in general steady the political course
over the years, they may swing slightly to the left or right but
the necessary cooperation generally avoids big swings.
It is easier for the people to have a modicum of control,true
they only vote once every (4) years but if one party in coalition
governments presses its agenda too far, the partner(s) may
resign their ministers and the government could fall.
Or the parliament may carry a motion of distrust and send them home.
This can also be a weakness in the system if it happens too
often as in Italy for example, but in general it works well.
Political Stalemate as in the USA with a de facto 2 party
winner takes all system, is very unlikely to happen in Europe.
The porc spending rampant in US politics, is almost impossible in this system in Europe, a politician found guilty
of this practice would ruin his political career.
In most countries it is unconstitutional and a serious crime,
they would end up in jail.
And it is worth voting with this system, I never quite understood the American Presidential System as it always
seems to revolve around a few key states.
Why bother to vote in a state where your party is certain to lose, your choice will be ignored for the next 4 years anyway.
Needless to say I prefer proportional representation.

Answer 3

Basically, it's because they want a legislature that can reflect each party's strength as close as possible. Proportional representation systems come in many types like the Single Transferable Vote, party lists or Mixed Member Proportional (mix of single member districts with party lists). I support a mixed system but wouldn't be dissapointed if the Single Transferable Vote were used in the States. Thanks!

Answer 4

Direct vote of the people is the best way to determine who is wanted by the majority of the people.