Second chambers in modern democracies Essay Example
Second chambers in modern democracies Essay Example

Second chambers in modern democracies Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (461 words)
  • Published: April 25, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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Modern democracies have established secondary chambers as a means of overseeing the assembly's authority. These secondary chambers possess the capability to question, revise, and potentially reject any procedures endorsed by the other chamber, serving as a mechanism for monitoring and regulating activity by the other chamber (Russell 2001a, p. 445).

The American States intentionally modeled their constitutions after the British Parliament by including a second chamber. This has been followed by many other countries to prevent hasty passing of crucial laws and encourage improvements through amendments. These second chambers are created in various ways depending on the country, such as for representation of communities within a federation by the federal government.

Some countries allow the head of the executive to choose any suitable nominee for the second chamber, while others limit their choice based on factors such as age, pre

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vious positions held, and property ownership. In certain countries, low-property voters can elect a second chamber, while others are openly elected by the people. Chambers elected through general suffrage, such as the American and Australian Senates, have equal lawful and practical influence as the first House (Patterson 1999; Russell 2001a, p.).

According to 443-445, there is a financial distinction between the two houses. Non-taxpayer-elected members have unequal power compared to taxpayer-elected members. The level of power held by the second chamber varies depending on its formation. A popularly elected second chamber wields more power than unpopular ones. Elected second chambers provide representation comparable to the other chamber.

When the first and second Houses are elected together, the political party is more likely to control the second House. However, if they are elected at different times, the later House is considere

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to truly represent the people’s desires. Regardless of how members of the second chamber are nominated, there are drawbacks. The power of the second chamber determines its structure and the structure affects its powers. If the chamber is given broad powers, it needs to be tough enough to exercise them. Conversely, if the powers are narrow, the chamber can be constructed accordingly.

The traditional respect felt for the members of the second chamber can give it power. If the second chamber has a noble history, then its members may belong to an influential class and enjoy societal merit. Additionally, the second chamber can derive power from the characters of its representatives. If it was elected by the people, then it serves their wishes. However, chambers that are not directly elected are believed to be weaker than the first chamber as they may not serve the best interests of the people.

The personal merit and rational eminence of second chamber members can compensate for the lack of popular election, giving them influence and making their decisions and arguments hold weight with the country.

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