SATISFACTION APPROVAL VOTING Meaning and
Definition
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Satisfaction approval voting is a method of voting that allows individuals to express their satisfaction or approval ratings for each candidate or option on the ballot. Unlike traditional voting systems where voters choose only one option, satisfaction approval voting allows voters to rate their satisfaction level or approval for each candidate or option on a scale. This scale could be numerical (e.g., 1-5), descriptive (e.g., excellent to poor), or any other system that allows voters to indicate their level of support or preference.
The satisfaction approval voting system combines the ratings or scores from all voters to determine the overall satisfaction or approval ratings for each candidate or option. The candidate or option with the highest average satisfaction or approval rating is then considered the winner or the preferred choice. This method aims to provide a more nuanced representation of voters' preferences compared to other voting systems.
Satisfaction approval voting can increase voter satisfaction as it allows individuals to express preferences for multiple candidates or options without having to choose just one. It also encourages strategic voting by allowing voters to express their true preferences, rather than the need to vote tactically for a particular candidate. This system offers greater flexibility in reflecting the diverse opinions and preferences of the electorate, leading to a more accurate reflection of the collective will of the voters.
