How can we retain the advantages of democratic government but reduce the problems caused by prisoners’ dilemmas? Here is a radical proposal for reflection and discussion. Abolish all congressional...

How can we retain the advantages of democratic government but reduce the problems caused by prisoners’ dilemmas? Here is a radical proposal for reflection and discussion.

Abolish all congressional staff. Create a one-house legislature with 600 members who serve six-year terms and cannot succeed themselves. Select 100 new legislators each year. Grant automatic eligibility for selection to every citizen who is 25 years of age or older, and who has either worked four years or earned a high school diploma. Pay each legislator generously, and grant each one equally generous lifetime retirement benefits that begin after their six-year term has ended. Then call them to the service of their country through a lottery.

(a) Would this system be democratic?

(b) What information and incentives would shape the outcome of the legislative process under this system?