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Representative democracy doesn't reflect technological realities of the 21st century

AMHERST Representative democracy leaves many people feeling disenfranchised from the political system.

Dave Mathieson - Cumberland News Now

Kenneth Jackson wishes citizens could have a direct impact on the democratic process, and he will discuss his concept for a new model of democratic government March 26 at the Four Fathers Library in Amherst. The presentation is from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

There is an election every four or five years and, in between, thats basically it, thats your level of involvement, said Kenneth Jackson, an Amherst author, while discussing U.S. and Canadian politics. This is an opportunity for citizens to gain more control and put faith back into the system.

Jackson will discuss a concept he developed called Engaged Democracy March 26 at the Four Fathers Library in Amherst.

People have discussed electoral reform, different ways of voting or changing constituencies, but Ive havent seen many people proposing to do away with representative democracy, said Jackson.

He says representative democracy is out-dated and doesnt reflect the technological realities of the 21st century.

Part of my mindset is that were moving into the digital age. Everybody has access to put their opinion forward, said Jackson. Why as a government system would we rely on something where one person talks on behalf of 500,000 other people? That, rationally, doesnt make sense anymore.

His system would change the role of members of parliament and the roles of the citizen.

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