"Some differences of opinions are radical, fundamental and irremovable. Argument upon them is useless, and controversy harmful. Many other differences are mere misunderstandings. They are not real but only seeming differences; and all that is needed for agreement is patience, intelligence and clear statement - principally the last of these."
These words were written more than a hundred years ago on the issue of increased Canadian Independence (J.S. Ewart, The Kingdom Papers), but could have relevance even today, to today's discussion of electoral reform.
Those who oppose PR perhaps have the misunderstanding that PR means minority dominance, meanwhile not seeing that FPTP in very many cases means minority dominance.
A clear statement of electoral reform would have it that PR means greater democracy. Put that way, who could object? Well, of course, those who actually benefit directly from the existing state of affairs - politicians, corporations, etc.
But most of us - that is, the 50 to 66 percent of the voters who are ignored in most districts in most elections - suffer from unfair FPTP-itis. And if there is any justice in the world, which i believe there is, we will eventually achieve our worthwhile goal of increased democracy through PR.
All it will take is "patience, intelligence and clear statement."
Thanks for reading.
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