Ramsay argues that the principle of representation in the US operates through a system of "nested representative assemblies." This system is based on the idea that each level of government represents the interests of the people who live within that level of government. For example, the federal government represents the interests of all Americans, while state governments represent the interests of the people who live in each state, and local governments represent the interests of the people who live in each county or city.
Ramsay believes that this system of nested representative assemblies allows for a more effective and responsive government. By having multiple levels of government, each with its own set of representatives, the government is able to better address the needs of the people who live in different parts of the country. For example, the federal government can focus on issues that affect the entire country, such as national security and the economy, while state and local governments can focus on issues that are more specific to their own regions, such as education and transportation.
Winthrop's View
Winthrop argues that the principle of representation in the US operates through a system of "proportional representation." This system is based on the idea that each group of people in the country should be represented in government in proportion to their size. For example, if a group of people makes up 20% of the population, then they should have 20% of the seats in the government.
Winthrop believes that proportional representation is a more fair and just system than nested representative assemblies. He argues that nested representative assemblies give too much power to the people who live in the most populous areas of the country, while proportional representation gives a voice to all groups of people, regardless of their size.
Comparison
Ramsay and Winthrop agree that the principle of representation is essential to the US government. However, they disagree on how this principle should be implemented. Ramsay believes that nested representative assemblies are the best way to represent the interests of the people, while Winthrop believes that proportional representation is the best way.
The debate between Ramsay and Winthrop is a long-standing one, and there is no clear consensus on which system is better. However, both systems have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it is likely that the debate will continue for many years to come.