Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Simplified legal system via enlightened self-interest

(Unabashedly lifting thoughts from Robert A. Heinlein...)

Let's have citizens granted the right to vote only after they've served
their country in some fashion for a minimum of two years.

If you don't want to serve, you still get all the other benefits of
citizenship -- you just don't get a chance to vote yourself bread and circuses.

Please read Starship Troopers by Heinlein if you need more information
about the pros and cons of this suggestion.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Simplified legal system via staying at home

Let's have Congress meet electronically the majority of the time. Modern
communications can allow most legislation to occur "back home."
  • Constituents would have better access to their law makers, and much better visibility of them as well.

  • Outside influences (lobbyists, etc.) would not be able to concentrate on a single location to have sway over several law makers.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Simplified legal system via mandatory sunset clauses

I purpose a mandatory sunset clause for all laws passed by legislators.  The length of the sunset period would be related to the margin by which any given law is passed.

Any law supported by more legislators would remain "on the books" longer than those that are passed by small majorities.  Over time, the laws that most influence our society would become laws supported by a large majority of society.