PoliticsJuly 15, 2026
plebiscite
/ˈplɛbɪˌsaɪt/
Definition
A direct vote by the entire electorate on a specific public question or policy proposal, often used to gauge public opinion on matters of constitutional significance.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'plebiscitum,' meaning a decree of the common people. It combines 'plebs' (the common people) and 'scitum' (decree or order), reflecting its historical origin as a way for the Roman citizenry to exert political influence.
In the news
The author notes that Alberta's upcoming referendum is less of a plebiscite on immediate independence and more of a procedural test to see if secession should become a formal item on the constitutional agenda.
What Is Sovereignty? Canada and the Politics of Shared Authority
Read the full article ↗Policy Magazine