Manchester University Press
1 Introduction
Abstract
This book provides a detailed overview of the history, practice, causes and effects of the legal obligation to vote, as well as an analysis of the normative arguments surrounding it. Recent debates about the possibility of introducing mandatory voting in those states where going to the polls remains voluntary call for a detailed discussion of the normative advantages and disadvantages of this institution. This chapter specifies what exactly is meant by the term ‘compulsory voting’. It seeks to conceptualise and construct a typology of electoral obligation, before examining variations in the way the institution of compulsory voting has been implemented in different states.
Abstract
This book provides a detailed overview of the history, practice, causes and effects of the legal obligation to vote, as well as an analysis of the normative arguments surrounding it. Recent debates about the possibility of introducing mandatory voting in those states where going to the polls remains voluntary call for a detailed discussion of the normative advantages and disadvantages of this institution. This chapter specifies what exactly is meant by the term ‘compulsory voting’. It seeks to conceptualise and construct a typology of electoral obligation, before examining variations in the way the institution of compulsory voting has been implemented in different states.
Chapters in this book
- Front matter i
- Contents v
- List of tables vii
- Preface ix
- 1 Introduction 1
- 2 A history of compulsory voting and an overview of contemporary experience 20
- 3 Normative arguments for and against compulsory voting 40
- 4 Compulsory voting and election campaigns 59
- 5 Compulsory voting and electoral turnout 79
- 6 Compulsory voting, electoral integrity and democratic legitimacy 99
- 7 Compulsory voting and political outcomes 118
- 8 Conclusion 136
- Appendix 155
- References 163
- Index 179
Chapters in this book
- Front matter i
- Contents v
- List of tables vii
- Preface ix
- 1 Introduction 1
- 2 A history of compulsory voting and an overview of contemporary experience 20
- 3 Normative arguments for and against compulsory voting 40
- 4 Compulsory voting and election campaigns 59
- 5 Compulsory voting and electoral turnout 79
- 6 Compulsory voting, electoral integrity and democratic legitimacy 99
- 7 Compulsory voting and political outcomes 118
- 8 Conclusion 136
- Appendix 155
- References 163
- Index 179
