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While the P-poll is about questions, the digital will is all about answers. Step 1
Simply put, the digital will of the people is the measurement of our sentiment--a simple Yea or Nay--regarding proposed legislation. It is a picture. For example: | | | Poll results for HR 101
| | | | | Are you in favor of HR 101 re: universal health care? | | | | | The People Say: Yea (68% vs. 32%) | |
Fig. 1. The "digital" will of the people regarding a sample bill
So, as far as the people are concerned, in the above example, that sample bill pretty much represents their will. In other words, we would be saying, "Ok Reps, we like it—go ahead and vote for it." Step 2
Of course, the Reps could still vote however they want, based on their best judgment, so what’s the point? | | | | Final fate of HR 101 Universal Health Care Act | | | | | the People | Yea | (68% vs. 32%) | | | | | | | | | | the House | Nay | (49% vs. 51%) | | | | | |
Fig. 2. Sample "digital" will compared to the vote in the House
In a representative democracy, the government is supposed to reflect the will of the people. How can it do that if nobody can see it? The digital will of the people can translate our will into a clear picture. On any national issue the digital will would allow us to see how we the people feel. Right now, the will of the people is utterly invisible. The ability to see the will of the people would give make our U.S. Reps more accountable. So the point is to have more influence, making citizens equal to lobbyists, more or less. The point is not to have the final say, but to give us a voice in our own democracy.
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