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Democracy for Realists

Why Elections Do Not Produce Responsive Government
Summary:

The book challenges the conventional wisdom of democratic theory, arguing that voters are not rational actors who choose candidates based on policy preferences, but rather are influenced by social identities and partisan loyalties. It presents evidence that elections often reflect the performance of the economy and current events rather than a thoughtful assessment of candidates and their platforms.

Key points:

1. Folk Theory Critique: Achen and Bartels argue that the idea of informed, rational voters voting for the common good doesn't match how people actually vote.

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