Quote:
Originally Posted by peter12
In the matter of reforming things, as distinct from deforming them, there is one plain and simple principle; a principle which will probably be called a paradox. There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, “I don’t see the use of this; let us clear it away.” To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: “If you don’t see the use of it, I certainly won’t let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.
G.K. Chesterton
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I don't think that Chestertons fallacy really applies here. We're all too familiar with why the gate is across the path here; we can see clearly why the system was built the way it was at the time and see its shortcomings. Its great to say that the idea of rejuvenation is better under the FPTP system we have than what we might get under the STV system, or whatever the final proposal looks like. It's hard to know though because we don't know what the proposal will be. I think that there are plenty of examples of parties clinging to power in the FPTP system though, and in various PR systems there are all kinds of compromises and bridge-building that are advantageous as well.
Clearly there is a give and take with any system though. Some will be better for some reasons and not as good for others.