Representation, Responsive and Indicative

Constellations, Vol 17, 2010, 426-34

9 Pages Posted: 6 Dec 2015

See all articles by Philip N. Pettit

Philip N. Pettit

Princeton University; Australian National University (ANU) - Research School of Social Sciences (RSSS)

Date Written: 2010

Abstract

Political representation may be responsive or indicative in character. In the responsive variety, the representer adopts a certain profile as a causal response to the mindset — the wishes, or interests, or whatever — of the represented. In the indicative, the fact that the representer adopts a certain profile indicates, as a matter of evidence, that the represented are of a corresponding mindset; indeed, in the typical case, the representer is chosen as a representer because of this being the case. This distinction cuts across more recognized divisions among types of representation and helps to illuminate many issues in politics.

Keywords: indicative representation, descriptive representation, responsive representation

Suggested Citation

Pettit, Philip N., Representation, Responsive and Indicative (2010). Constellations, Vol 17, 2010, 426-34, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2699304

Philip N. Pettit (Contact Author)

Princeton University ( email )

305 Marx Hall
Princeton, NJ 08544-1012
United States
609-258-4759 (Phone)
609-258-1110 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://www.princeton.edu/~ppettit/

Australian National University (ANU) - Research School of Social Sciences (RSSS) ( email )

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 0200
Australia

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