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To what extent are compulsory voting and lowering the voting age the best ways to improve participation in the UK? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
To what extent are compulsory voting and lowering the voting age the best ways to improve participation in the UK?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent are compulsory voting and lowering the voting age the best ways to improve participation in the UK? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Compulsory voting
Answer
Compulsory voting is a method that mandates citizens to vote in elections. This approach could enhance the legitimacy of elected officials and governments, as it ensures a higher turnout rate, reflecting a more accurate representation of the electorate's views. Furthermore, voting is seen as a civic duty, which could foster a stronger sense of responsibility among citizens. The argument is that higher participation rates would not only represent the populace better but also encourage more engaged and informed voters.
Step 2
Lowering the voting age
Answer
Lowering the voting age from 18 to 16 aligns political rights with similar duties and entitlements at a younger age. Implementing this change could widen the franchise and elevate the importance of political engagement among young people. Additionally, a younger voting population could compel political parties to pay greater attention to the issues relevant to this demographic. Evidence from the 2014 Scottish independence referendum suggests that younger voters can significantly impact electoral outcomes.
Step 3
Counterarguments
Answer
Despite the potential benefits of compulsory voting and lowering the voting age, there are notable counterarguments. Critics argue that individuals at 16 may lack the necessary maturity and understanding to participate effectively in elections. There is also a concern that turnout rates might decline if younger voters are less engaged. Moreover, the principle of representative democracy emphasizes the choice to vote, suggesting that compulsion may not lead to genuinely informed opinions. Alternatives such as increasing the use of referendums or implementing digital democracy strategies could offer more opportunities for engagement without mandating participation.