Polity Atlas

How each model solves the same problems

Instead of “democracy versus anarchism”, compare the concrete ways collective problems get solved.

Question+ Model
How are decisions made?Lottery-selected members deliberate and approve a declaration clause by clause by majority vote; advisory only.Sortition / citizens' assemblyEach listed body sets its own well-being objectives and steps; the Welsh Ministers publish national indicators and a future trends report after each election.
How are conflicts resolved?Facilitated deliberation with expert input; amendments settled by member votes.The Commissioner may review a body and recommend; the body must take reasonable steps to follow or publish reasons (s 22). The Auditor General examines application of the principle.
How are public goods funded?Funded by foundations and governments, not by a public budget; 2021 donors included the European Climate Foundation and the Scottish Government.Covers the Welsh Ministers, local authorities, health boards, national park authorities and other listed bodies; public services boards plan locally.
How is AI used?No documented AI role.No documented AI role.
What are the main risks?No binding mandate; donor and host dependence; online deliberation across languages and unequal connectivity.Soft 'follow or explain' enforcement; procedural compliance; difficulty measuring long-term and preventative benefits.

This illustrates differences in design; it is not a universal claim about outcomes. Each cell links to mechanisms and the claims behind them.