Political representation
Theory of representative institutions
It studies how officials and institutions make citizens’ interests and perspectives present.
Historical context
Representation took on particular importance with the development of elected institutions and debates about whose interests enter public decisions.
Overview
A representative can share a group’s experience, defend its interests, or answer to it. Each feature addresses a different problem and can exist without the others.
Main claims
Representation involves relations of action, authorisation, or accountability that should be distinguished.
Debates and nuances
Representation can involve acting for others, resembling them, or answering to them.
This entry provides educational context.