In theses times of mistrust of corporate media, and elected representation, the opportunity exists for a new kind of democracy. As much as technology seems to have irreversibly changed much of our lives, it seems to have affected little change in the infrastructure of our political institutions. In the UK for instance we are still governed by two houses, one democratically elected (the house of commons), the other appointed (the house of Lords).
Surely in this age instant global communication, it should be possible for each of us to have our say on the matters which affect our lives. As it seems our elected representatives (of which we have a poor choice to begin with - often one of the lesser of two evils), seem to be disconnected from the will of the people, perhaps a third house would give us an unavoidable voice.
So what is this third house, how would it work, and what are the challenges.
Simply put, it is house without representatives, whereby everyone gets to vote on the issues of most concern, as determined by the people.
It would be an online system, utilising some form of biometric ID security, that would be available for scrutiny at any time, so as to be open and transparent. The issue of system security being one of the most significant challenges.
The manner in which issues are brought to the fore, is by any individual raising a post and petitioning for support. This issue of petitioning being another significant challenge; in that petitioning of potential supporters is generally about informing people about the issue, in order that they are able to make a decision. The essence of this challenge is to ensure that people are informed in an honest, and balanced way.
Once an issue raises sufficient support (on the basis of numbers of people promoting it to the next stage), it will be brought to the fore, for a period of wider, more informed debate. Once again this area has challenges in terms of ensuring a fair and balanced perspective.
Finally having informed people of the FACTS about an issue, they would get to have their say.
Yes the challenges are steep, but the rewards could be more than worth the effort, who knows - those in the current two houses might just take notice - less they be gone.
Great idea, but why keep the House of Lords? Most of them sleep through the debates anyway due to age (have you ever watched BBC Parliament?) They are a ridiculous waste of money and yet Boris wants to appoint another 200 of them - so I hear.