Many candidates seek votes through beggar-thy-neighbour appeals to the self-interest of a particular linguistic, caste or religious group.

ECONOMIST: Democracy in India

Because politicians would need to seek more than 50% of votes to win, they would become less tribal.

ECONOMIST: Constitutional reform in Britain

In principle, Mr Hastert might seek to pass a budget with the help of Democratic votes by agreeing to increase spending and dilute Republican demands for a big tax cut.

ECONOMIST: Budgetary follies

They put together the votes over time and across party lines and they did not seek a shortcut.

NPR: In Filibuster Fight, Both Parties Switch Stances