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On the Optimal Number of Representatives

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Author Info
Auriol, Emmanuelle
Gary-Bobo, Robert J.

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Abstract

We propose a normative theory of the number of representatives based on a stylized model of a representative democracy. We derive a simple formula, a "square-root theory" which gives the number of representatives in parliament as proportional to the square root of total population. Simple econometric tests of the formula on a sample of a 100 countries yield surprisingly good results. These results provide a benchmark for a discussion of the appropriateness of the number of representatives in some countries. It seems that the United States have too few representatives, while France and Italy have too many. The excess number of representatives matters: it is positively correlated with indicators of red tape, barriers to entrepreneurship and perceived corruption.

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Paper provided by C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers in its series CEPR Discussion Papers with number 6417.

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Date of creation: Aug 2007
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Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:6417

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Related research
Keywords: Constitution Design; Incentives; Number of Representatives; Representative Democracy;

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Find related papers by JEL classification:
D7 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making
H11 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - Structure and Scope of Government
H40 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - General

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Cited by:
(explanations, Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.)

  1. Auriol, Emmanuelle & Gary-Bobo, Robert J., 2007. "On the Optimal Number of Representatives," CEPR Discussion Papers 6417, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers. [Downloadable!] (restricted)
    Other versions:
  2. Dino Gerardi & Leeat Yariv, 2003. "Committee Design in the Presence of Communication," Cowles Foundation Discussion Papers 1411, Cowles Foundation, Yale University. [Downloadable!]
  3. Piolatto, Amedeo, 2008. "Electoral systems and the distortion of voters' preferences," MPRA Paper 12610, University Library of Munich, Germany, revised 08 Jan 2009. [Downloadable!]
    Other versions:
  4. Emmanuelle Auriol & Robert Gary-Bobo, 2007. "On Robust Constitution Design," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 62(3), pages 241-279, May. [Downloadable!] (restricted)
    Other versions:
  5. Dino Gerardi & Leeat Yariv, 2003. "Putting Your Ballot Where you Mouth Is: An Analysis of Collective Choice," Levine's Bibliography 506439000000000280, UCLA Department of Economics. [Downloadable!]
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