Representation!
There is not one single universal definition of political representation that is accepted by all. Due to this difference in opinion, political representation is defined in many different ways, by many different political scientists. My personal definition of political representation has been developed by utilizing various components of definitions and is as follows. Political representation is the operation of political compensation by representatives, in an attempt to express the viewpoints of citizens within their political domain, as well as representing their thoughts and statements in politics. Political representation is made up of four factors, all that vary from case to case, but all cases still require a group, organization, or party that is being represented, the representative, the values, opinions and viewpoints that are being delineated, and finally, the setting and background in which it is being represented. Political representation is necessary within a state because it allows for power amid citizens to be shared rather than unequally distributed.
Two different forms of representation include delegate and trustee representation. Delegate representation requires the representative to represent specific groups within society, while trustee representatives represent the common interest of society. Delegate representatives are responsible for how well their actions benefitted the individuals of the group they represent, while trustee representatives are answerable to how they influenced the nation.
When representing constituencies, representatives are faced with two conflicting plans of action. They can either go along with the plans and interests of the constituency, or they could follow through with the plan of action that they feel is the best for the constituency as a whole.
Congress’ job is to represent the citizens by acting in the interest of the majority, and determining the decisions the majority would support if they had been given the same information that Congress had received. Therefore, they must take into consideration not only how the majority feels presently, but also how they will feel in the future. While most legislatures represent in this fashion, some believe that it is up to them to determine the best course of action for the majority.
The representative must also take into consideration his future plans for reelection while representing the constituencies. If the representative plans on attempting to be reelected, he must appeal to his constituency and represent them in a way that they are not irritated or harbor any hatred towards him that could essentially keep them from voting in the representative’s favor. Typically while running and representing, legislatures tend to target their supporters rather than their opponents. Supporter’s votes already lay with the representatives and are easy votes to maintain, while obtaining the votes of the opponents would be a challenge. A representative will change their concrete behaviors according to various characteristics of groups. Factors that have to potential of altering the representative’s manner of representing are the economic status of a nation, diversity within the group they represent, as well as the values of the group they are representing. A representative’s tactics must adapt to the characteristics and values of the party they are representing. The diversity within the group makes it difficult for a representative to find a way to appeal to all the members of a certain area. A representative must be adaptive to be successful in representing a party.
