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?A presumption that decisions sit at the lowest competent level, with higher levels required to justify intervention.Grand Council of 50 chiefs chosen by clan mothers; questions pass between groups of nations, each seeking unanimity, with the Onondaga Firekeepers confirming or resolving disagreement.
How are conflicts resolved?UnknownThe Confederacy describes the Grand Council as resolving disputes among the nations and planning for the welfare of all the people.
How are public goods funded?Matches the scale of provision to the scale of effects; higher levels step in for spillovers and weak local capacity.Unknown
How is AI used?UnknownNo documented AI role.
What are the main risks?Indeterminacy about which level is competent; local domination; delay on problems that cross borders.Operates alongside US and Canadian governments, which limits its practical jurisdiction; its rule of unanimity within and between blocs requires broad agreement.CLM-0117CLM-0118

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