Dados is one of the most widely-read social sciences journals in Latin America. Created in 1966, it publishes innovative works, originating from academic research, by Brazilian and foreign authors. Edited by IESP-UERJ, it aims to reconcile scientific rigor and academic excellence with an emphasis on public debate based on the analysis of substantive issues of society and politics.
Dados vol. 26 n. 2 Rio de Janeiro 1983
Abstract
The proposal for the reform of the Brazilian electoral system which is now before Congress envisages the adoption of a mixed formula for proportional and majority representation based on votes cast in electoral districts. Seeking to evaluate this proposal, the author points out that the appropriate yardstick is whether it contributes to the process of political democratization of the country. Seven current arguments in favor of the adoption of a mixed proportional-majority congressional vote formula are then evaluated: (1) that the country can thus enjoy the advantages associated with each one of the principles of representation; (2) that the formula prevents the fragmentation of the party system which is attributed to the prevalence of proportional representation; (3) that it also prevents the fragmentation of public opinion into a myriad of unconnected tendencies; (4) that it redresses the under representation of metropolitan areas and of cities in the interior of the country; (5) that the formula prevents the spatial dispersion of the vote, thus strengthening the representation of local interests; (6) that it also redresses the disproportional allocation of seats to votes cast between different parties and States of the Federation; and (7) that the mixed formula, thanks to its majority vote component, strengthens the linkages between the representative and the represented. None of the arguments, concludes the author, proves to be convincing on closer scrutiny. He first: points out that the current electoral system is already based on a mixed proportional majority formula and that the shortcomings commonly attributed to proportional representation would not be compensated for through the attribution of a more central role to a majority vote principle.
A Reforma do Sistema Eleitoral
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