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27 Dec 2025
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Scottish Voting System Explained: AMS in Scotland & UK
kaitlin mcaโค๏ธโ๐ฅ๐๐
@kaitlinmcarthur_x
The Impact of AMS on Scottish Politics
The Additional Member System (AMS) has significantly shaped the political landscape of Scotland since its introduction. This system has allowed for a more diverse representation in the Scottish Parliament while still maintaining the possibility of strong governance.
Definition: Tactical voting - When voters support a candidate or party that is not their first choice, in order to prevent an undesirable outcome.
The AMS has reduced the need for tactical voting by giving smaller parties a realistic chance of gaining seats through the regional list. This has led to a more vibrant and diverse political environment in Scotland.
Example: In the 2021 Scottish Parliament election, the Scottish Green Party won 8 seats through the list system, despite not winning any constituency seats.
This example demonstrates how the AMS enables parties with significant support but not enough to win individual constituencies to still gain representation in parliament.
However, the system is not without its critics. One of the main disadvantages of AMS is that it can still produce majority governments, which some argue goes against the principle of proportional representation.
Highlight: In 2011, the Scottish National Party (SNP) achieved a majority government with 69 seats, becoming the first party to do so under the AMS.
This outcome shows that while the AMS generally promotes coalition or minority governments, it does not completely prevent single-party majorities. This can be seen as both a strength and a weakness of the system, depending on one's perspective on governance.
Quote: "If there was a minority government these bills may not have passed."
This statement refers to the ability of a majority government to pass legislation more easily, as demonstrated by the SNP's success in implementing policies such as the minimum unit pricing act and the offensive behaviour at football act.
Understanding the nuances of the Additional Member System is crucial for students studying Higher Modern Studies, as it forms a key part of understanding Scottish democracy and governance.
Understanding the Additional Member System in Scotland
The Scottish voting system, known as the Additional Member System (AMS), is designed to provide fair representation in the Scottish Parliament. This system combines elements of First Past the Post and proportional representation to create a more balanced outcome.
Key Features of AMS:
- Voters have two votes: one for a constituency MSP and one for regional list representatives
- The system aims to balance local representation with overall proportionality
- It reduces wasted votes by considering both constituency and list votes
Vocabulary: MSP - Member of the Scottish Parliament
Example: In the 2021 Scottish Parliament election, the Labour Party won only 2 constituency seats but gained a total of 22 MSPs after list votes were counted, better reflecting their overall vote share of 20%.
Highlight: The AMS allows smaller parties to gain representation, encouraging voters to support their preferred parties without feeling the need to vote tactically.
The Additional Member System advantages include:
- More proportional representation of voter preferences
- Reduced tactical voting
- Increased representation for smaller parties
However, there are also some disadvantages of AMS:
- The system can still potentially produce majority governments, which some argue goes against the intention of creating coalition or minority governments
- It can be more complex for voters to understand compared to simpler systems
Quote: "Parties like the Scottish Green Party and the Scottish Liberal Democrats Party are a genuine political force in Parliament, meaning that more people's opinions are represented."
This statement underscores the system's ability to give voice to a broader range of political views in the Scottish Parliament.
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Basil
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This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
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In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Scottish Voting System Explained: AMS in Scotland & UK
kaitlin mcaโค๏ธโ๐ฅ๐๐
@kaitlinmcarthur_x
The Additional Member System (AMS)used in Scotland provides a balanced approach to electoral representation, combining constituency and regional list votes to achieve a more proportional outcome. This system, introduced with the establishment of the Scottish Parliament, aims to address... Show more
The Impact of AMS on Scottish Politics
The Additional Member System (AMS) has significantly shaped the political landscape of Scotland since its introduction. This system has allowed for a more diverse representation in the Scottish Parliament while still maintaining the possibility of strong governance.
Definition: Tactical voting - When voters support a candidate or party that is not their first choice, in order to prevent an undesirable outcome.
The AMS has reduced the need for tactical voting by giving smaller parties a realistic chance of gaining seats through the regional list. This has led to a more vibrant and diverse political environment in Scotland.
Example: In the 2021 Scottish Parliament election, the Scottish Green Party won 8 seats through the list system, despite not winning any constituency seats.
This example demonstrates how the AMS enables parties with significant support but not enough to win individual constituencies to still gain representation in parliament.
However, the system is not without its critics. One of the main disadvantages of AMS is that it can still produce majority governments, which some argue goes against the principle of proportional representation.
Highlight: In 2011, the Scottish National Party (SNP) achieved a majority government with 69 seats, becoming the first party to do so under the AMS.
This outcome shows that while the AMS generally promotes coalition or minority governments, it does not completely prevent single-party majorities. This can be seen as both a strength and a weakness of the system, depending on one's perspective on governance.
Quote: "If there was a minority government these bills may not have passed."
This statement refers to the ability of a majority government to pass legislation more easily, as demonstrated by the SNP's success in implementing policies such as the minimum unit pricing act and the offensive behaviour at football act.
Understanding the nuances of the Additional Member System is crucial for students studying Higher Modern Studies, as it forms a key part of understanding Scottish democracy and governance.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Understanding the Additional Member System in Scotland
The Scottish voting system, known as the Additional Member System (AMS), is designed to provide fair representation in the Scottish Parliament. This system combines elements of First Past the Post and proportional representation to create a more balanced outcome.
Key Features of AMS:
- Voters have two votes: one for a constituency MSP and one for regional list representatives
- The system aims to balance local representation with overall proportionality
- It reduces wasted votes by considering both constituency and list votes
Vocabulary: MSP - Member of the Scottish Parliament
Example: In the 2021 Scottish Parliament election, the Labour Party won only 2 constituency seats but gained a total of 22 MSPs after list votes were counted, better reflecting their overall vote share of 20%.
Highlight: The AMS allows smaller parties to gain representation, encouraging voters to support their preferred parties without feeling the need to vote tactically.
The Additional Member System advantages include:
- More proportional representation of voter preferences
- Reduced tactical voting
- Increased representation for smaller parties
However, there are also some disadvantages of AMS:
- The system can still potentially produce majority governments, which some argue goes against the intention of creating coalition or minority governments
- It can be more complex for voters to understand compared to simpler systems
Quote: "Parties like the Scottish Green Party and the Scottish Liberal Democrats Party are a genuine political force in Parliament, meaning that more people's opinions are represented."
This statement underscores the system's ability to give voice to a broader range of political views in the Scottish Parliament.
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
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4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user