The people's will | The Economist
I found this a very useful introduction to Californian democracy and interesting angle on the issues that seem to make it so dysfunctional from the outside.
Perhaps because it is written clearly, I really got an appreciation on how slight differences in intent and implementation can drive completely different results. California v Switzerland being a clear example. The very size difference between these two democracies is also important to note. I am not sure that direct democracy can work so well across such a large area, versus the relatively intimate cantons of Switzerland.
But while the 'initiatives' seem to have got them into this mess, it will be very exciting to see if the 'people' can actually rise above it and recognize what needs to be done to balance power once more. It could be a great time to watch the State up close.
I found this a very useful introduction to Californian democracy and interesting angle on the issues that seem to make it so dysfunctional from the outside.
Perhaps because it is written clearly, I really got an appreciation on how slight differences in intent and implementation can drive completely different results. California v Switzerland being a clear example. The very size difference between these two democracies is also important to note. I am not sure that direct democracy can work so well across such a large area, versus the relatively intimate cantons of Switzerland.
But while the 'initiatives' seem to have got them into this mess, it will be very exciting to see if the 'people' can actually rise above it and recognize what needs to be done to balance power once more. It could be a great time to watch the State up close.
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