A Spatial Analysis of Delegate Voting at the Constitutional Convention

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Wake Forest University; University System of Georgia; University of Georgia
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC HISTORY
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0022-0507
• DOI: 10.1017/S0022050713000314
• 发表日期: 2013
• 页码: 407-444
• 关键词: economic interpretation; federal convention; state; interests; FAILURE; LESSONS

摘要

Previous studies of the U.S. Constitutional Convention have relied on votes recorded for the state blocs or a relatively small number of delegate votes. We construct a new data set covering delegate votes on over 600 substantive roll calls, and use the data in several ways. First, we estimate a single dimensional position for the delegates which reflects their overall voting patterns. Next, we explain these positions using a variety of delegate and constituent variables. Finally, we suggest a method for identifying state and floor medians, which can be used to predict equilibrium outcomes at the Convention.