Is There One Best ‘Model of Democracy’?* Efficiency and Representativeness: ‘Theoretical Revolution ’ or Democratic Dilemma?

Abstract: One element in the choice of a constitutional design or model of democ-racy is the criterion of efficiency. Different political scientists, however, understand the word ‘efficiency ’ in different ways. The author suggests a distinction between its two main meanings: (1) efficiency-action capacity and (2) effectiveness-socio-economic performance. It is not just socio-economic effectiveness that is important, but also political efficiency-action capacity. Efficiency-action capacity is closely linked with the theory of democracy put forward by Schumpeter and adopted by the majority of political scientists today. Thus efficiency is essential not only for the government (in that it simplifies the operation of power) but also, and even more importantly, for the governed, for the citizens (in that it simplifies the choice and peaceful removal of the rulers, i.e. the executive). Czech Sociological Review, 1997, Vol. 5 (No. 2: 131-157) “The problem then is always to find the form most appropriate to the circumstances. Reason-able people may disagree on what is most appro-priate in particular circumstances. But so long as they agree that no one form is suitable for all cir-cumstances they stand some chance of finding a form of authority suitable for the particular cir-cumstances. ” [Dahl 1990: 75