QUICK QUESTIONS: SHOULD VOTING BE COMPULSORY? In several countries, voting is not compulsory. But in others (Australia and parts of Switzerland, Belgium and Singapore), it is compulsory, and the punishment for non-voting can vary from a fine to being deprived of government services! While some citizens fight for their right to vote, others experience voter apathy for various reasons. But should voting be viewed as a duty or a right? Would making it a duty violate an individual’s freedom of choice? In Australia, for instance, compulsory voting was introduced at federal elections in 1924. S, every Australian citizen who is over 18 HAS to vote, unless they have a ‘valid and sufficient reason for failing to vote’ (which is decided by the electoral commission). If such a person does not provide an acceptable reason, they pay a penalty. And if they do not pay, the matter goes to court. But some argue that, because Australia has a small population, there is less bureaucracy in the system. Plus, Australia does have fast and efficient courts which should convince people that the law WILL catch up with them if they don’t comply. ALSO, HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT CELEBRITIES TAKING PART IN POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS? While the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger managed to go from celebrity to politician, others seem prone to endorsing candidates. Of course, campaigning for a cause such as poverty eradication or human rights is a different matter, but should celebs actively campaign for a Governorship candidate, for instance. For instance, Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign enjoyed quite some celebrity endorsement (from Oprah Winfrey through Leonardo di Caprio and to Jay-Z.) …and you can imagine the impact that had. Some say it’s good, because the message (where there is one) gets round faster due to their influence, and more people are encouraged to go out and vote. Others say it’s undue influence, and that people could end up voting for all the wrong reasons. WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Posted on: Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:42:57 +0000
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