As opposed to a
single-party system, a
multi-party system of
government encourages the constituency to form two or more competing groups that are officially recognized in the
political system. Each
political party competes for votes from the
enfranchised constituents (those allowed to vote). The
American electoral system operates on a
winner takes all basis, encouraging two large parties. Other nations, such as
Great Britain and
Israel, allow for
proportional representation, which encourages a greater number of smaller parties.
Communism encourages
monopoly rule by the
Communist Party. Some countries, including the
monarchy Saudi Arabia, prohibit political parties. A multi-party system allows for greater diversity of opinion, encourages greater citizen participation and reduces corruption. Too many parties often allow small
factions greater influence, and frustrate
majority rule.
