Considering.....

[banker_frank]

that the technology exists to enable a real democracy, would a true democracy (every single person can vote on every single legislation) be advantageous or detrimental?

[Khandro]

That's what they do in Switzerland.

[spathiphyllum]

Too easily hackable.

[banker_frank]

Everyone has a pin number to vote on all legislation either online or by telephone.

[spathiphyllum]

It's hackable on a grander scale than individual voters. Any tech system, especially political, needs some serious, serious security.

[banker_frank]

G.C.H.Q.

[spathiphyllum]

It's still hackable.

[THECORBYLOON]

KHANDRO, they don't vote on EVERY decision.

"Optional referendum

The optional referendum allows the people to demand that any bill approved by the Federal Assembly is put to a nationwide vote.  In order to bring about a national referendum, 50,000 valid signatures must be collected within 100 days of publication of the new legislation..

Mandatory referendum

All constitutional amendments approved by parliament are subject to a mandatory referendum, i.e. they must be put to a nationwide popular vote.   The electorate are also required to approve Swiss membership of specific international organisations."

[THECORBYLOON]

Would you expect a vote on EVERY amendment to legislation no matter how minor?

[banker_frank]

On every singe legislation. Advantageous? Detrimental?, I'll add another choice: Impossible?

[bednobs]

blimey, no, as it means all the stupid people would get a vote too.

[THECORBYLOON]

Government would grind to a halt.

[banker_frank]

The people would be the government with an elected leader (Premier)

[THECORBYLOON]

The system would not work if every single piece of legislation had to be voted on by the public. How would they get the information on which to make an informed decision?

[douglas9401]

"Government would grind to a halt."

Really? You think a few votes would impede the unstoppable juggernaut that is the British government, known for hard work, high productivity and eminently sensible decisions?

I refer of course to their sterling work on their own pay rises and allowances amounts the rest can be done later, if ever. The plebs don't know or care.