WhyNot?

Incentives For Politicians

Category: Politics
Responses: 3 (1 in support, 0 neutral, 2 in opposition)
Number of views: 897
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Hi,

I came across a couple of ideas in a series of books by David Eddings, collectively known as The Tamuli. I've described them below, but was wondering if any organization, political/ corporate/etc. had ever implemented it (I mean, was it sheer genius, a la "Why Not?" or was it inspired by something else?)

1. The electoral system in one of the nation's states is basically democratic, with a twist. Nobody wants to nominate themselves as candidates for the head of government because the moment they're nominated, all their assets are seized and transferred to the government. If they are not elected, their assets are returned. If they do become the head of the government, since their assets are public, its in the best interests of the unfortunate fellow to make sure the economy does well, otherwise he loses a lot of money!

2. The problem with malcontents is that they think they know how to do things better than incumbent governments. So instead of allowing the firebrands to run amok, the government says something along the lines of: Well, if you think you can run things better, go ahead and show us. That way, the government is seen as sympathetic & listening, and the malcontent effectively switches sides!

Thanks

Axe

akshay_a, Nov 10 2003

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Comments from other members:

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This isnt really an incentive. Presidents, for example, give up huge amounts of potential income to become president. Maybe not all their income, but almost all could make more in private life than public life.

mithryll1, Nov 10 2003