The highest averages method, often known by the name of a Belgian mathematician, is a system for allocating seats proportionally in various representative bodies. It is used in electoral systems to distribute seats based on vote share. For example, if a party receives 40% of the votes in an election with 10 seats available, the method calculates a series of averages to determine a fair allocation, potentially awarding them 4 seats. The calculation involves dividing the total votes received by each party by a series of divisors (1, 2, 3, etc.). The highest resulting quotients across all parties are then selected until all seats are filled.
This particular approach promotes proportionality by favoring larger parties while still providing representation for smaller parties that achieve a significant portion of the vote. Its application spans a wide range of elections, from national parliaments to local councils and even corporate boardrooms. Historically rooted in the late 19th century, its consistent use demonstrates its effectiveness in balancing diverse representation with electoral stability. Its mathematically defined nature offers a transparent and auditable process, bolstering public trust in electoral outcomes.
