Communicative Democracy and Voter Choice: Evidence From a Conjoint Analysis in Taiwan

Abstract

While prior scholarship has dedicated substantial attention to theoretically discussing communicative democracy, there has been a notable dearth of empirical research examining its political implications. This study endeavors to bridge this gap by exploring the impact of prioritizing communicative democracy in policy-making on electoral support. Through a conjoint experiment conducted in Taiwan, this study finds that candidates who emphasize communicative democracy, characterized by transparent communication, active engagement, and meaningful dialogue, are more likely to be chosen by voters over those who focus on majority rule. This preference highlights a broader desire for inclusivity and policies reflecting diverse viewpoints. As the first empirical investigation, the findings contribute to our understanding of voter values around communication and inclusivity in democracy, indicating a shift toward valuing collaborative policy development.