Index 
Government
Random Selection of Lawmakers: It seems (it always “seems” in such things) we have replaced a hereditary aristocracy with a competitive aristocracy. Random selection of lawmakers is, well would be, a great leap forward for democracy. Death penalty for currying their favor or accepting such curry. 2 to 4 years, two terms; one to watch, one to vote; lifetime pension @200K/yr (2011) Randomly selected appointments from a sign up list, sessions only 15 minute to 1 hour, at discretion of the lawmaker. Full subpoena power, and other such duties and powers to be worked out. They serve alongside the current “political” aristocracy, perhaps as only a veto power of the legislator’s works, augumenting perhaps replacing the presidential veto. I think the time is now to start thinking about such democratic reforms. They will be a long time coming, especially as the entrenched aristocrats sense a threat to their hegemony. But for at least one house, perhaps it’s worth thinking about. Just think about random selection: politics not for sale, perfectly legitimate representation of all special interest groups. We have the technology to assure within narrow error bands representation of ALL groups, well those over say 10,000 members. , I can think of no better solution to both concerns about money effects on politics and “fair representation” of minority groups. Is it possible? Is it desirable? It makes a lot of sense to me, really. |