Electoral systems are

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Electoral systems are formal, legal mechanisms that translate votes into control over political offices. The other options are either too narrow or do not capture the full essence of what an electoral system is. For example, while the number of political parties may influence an electoral system, it is not the determining factor as many other factors (such as the type of electoral system used, the size of the electorate, etc.) also play a role. Similarly, while the winner-takes-all system is one type of electoral system, it is not the only one (there are also proportional representation systems, mixed systems, etc.). Finally, while parties may interact with one another in some electoral systems (coalition-building, for example), this is not a defining characteristic of electoral systems.

Electoral Systems Are