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?108 members chosen by civic lottery heard experts and voted by secret ballot, mostly in thematic groups, on options for reaching net zero.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?Professional facilitation, balanced expert leads, secret ballots recording levels of support; no formal channel for disputes with government.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 the House of Commons (£120,000) and two foundations (£220,000 each); produced a public record of informed citizens' preferences on net-zero trade-offs.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 AI role.No documented AI role.
What are the main risks?No duty on government to respond; remit too broad for six weekends; agenda set by organisers rather than members.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.