Common denominator Quote by Shashi Tharoor
““The parliamentary democracy we have adopted involves the British perversity of electing a legislature to form an executive: this has created a unique breed of legislator, largely unqualified to legislate, who has sought election only in order to wield (or influence) executive power. It has produced governments obliged to focus more on politics than on policy or performance. It has distorted the voting preferences of an electorate that knows which individuals it wants but not necessarily which policies. It has spawned parties that are shifting alliances of individual interests rather than the vehicles of coherent sets of ideas. It has forced governments to concentrate less on governing than on staying in office, and obliged them to cater to the lowest common denominator of their coalitions. It is time for a change.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Parliamentary Reform Address, 2014
The current parliamentary system elects legislators who seek executive power, leading to unqualified lawmaking, policy neglect, and coalition politics that prioritize staying in office over governance.
In simple terms: Parliamentary democracy often yields unqualified legislators focused on power, not policy.
Key Takeaway
Demand reforms that separate legislative and executive authority.
Themes
democracy
politics
governance
representation
reform
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- policy drafting
- coalition negotiations
- public accountability
- constitutional amendment
Key Concepts
separation of powers
political accountability
institutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens pressure for institutional change?
- What safeguards ensure legislators remain policy‑focused?
A Different Perspective
Reforms may face entrenched interests resistant to change.
