Experienced in Politics / Experienced in Life

Interactive Democracy recognises that there is an important role for professional politicians but that job precludes them from an alternative career. Wouldn't it be useful if the experiences gained by professionals in other areas were factored into the political system? Of course individuals can do that today, by joining a political party or campaign, but that often takes time that a busy person may not have. It also requires skills that a capable engineer, teacher or soldier, for example, may not have. Interactive Democracy makes it easier for real life experiences from all sectors of society to be factored into politics.

Let the Politicians Decide!

There is an argument that only professional politicians have the time and inclination to fully understand issues of law making and national policy. The electorate, with all of the distractions of normal life, should not be allowed to vote on every law, because it takes time to build an understanding of the issues involved. A general election, or referendum on Europe, occur so infrequently that the electorate have the time to build up a good understanding of the issues.

Not overloading the electorate is a significant concern, but how do you decide which motions go to referendum? One solution would be to only select those that had gained significant support at the "seconding" (ePetition) stage of the Interactive Democratic process.