The hypothetical Feather Party: A Matrix-Based Approach to Political Decision-Making

(Illustrative only)

Todd believes

that bringing in a fresh

perspective might

help in creating pathways

for average folks

to share their concerns,

propose ideas, and

develop their communities.

Farmers, store clerks,

small business owners,

concerned citizens,

investors, all welcome!

He thinks the hypothetical Feather Party

should consider a cap on all

donations and no special interests.

Flatter party structure

means less overhead.

All decisions must be free, 

independent and for the

best interest of society as

a whole.

"In politics, we presume that

everyone who knows how

to get votes knows how to

administer a city or a state. When we are ill…

we do not ask for the

handsomest physician,

or the most eloquent one."

-Plato

Todd knows he is ugly but

he still tries anway.🤷😲

Let us continue this philosophical discussion of the hypothetical Feather Party, which exists at present purely as a thought experiment. The idea is to explore the potential role of a small, independent third party that seeks to influence and occasionally tip votes in order to preserve core national values, provide a more direct route to governance for average people, think about the needs of the next generation and enhance strategic decision making. 

(It is ok if this is the world's dumbest idea. We are just enjoying the discussion here. Pet rocks made millions and this one will be a headache but all in good kharma.)

Let us consider there are many options and ways to do this. We can use our imagination to think what that part would look like and its benefits or detractors. Rather than defining itself in opposition to existing parties, the hypothetical Feather Party would operate through a decision-making matrix designed to evaluate legislation and policy choices based on agreed-upon principles. Conservative or liberal are not central to the discussion but is left in the hands of the independent voter.

At its core, this would be a forum for discussion, analysis, and informed opinion—offering guidance to independent voters without requiring them to vote a particular way. By doing so, it could introduce additional perspective into the political process, potentially shaping decision-making and outcomes in meaningful ways. It helps to inform people objectively about issues and then provide what it believes would make the most sense based on the factors involved. If nothing else, it creates an element of fluidity in thinking.

Such an approach would require a clearly defined decision-making matrix that is broad enough to encompass many discussions.  It should remain flexible, yet structured enough to evaluate decisions against established criteria. Each policy or piece of legislation could be reviewed through this lens and receive an endorsement, rejection, or recommendation for revision. 

Given the complexity of modern governance, there could also be value in creating more direct channels for collecting ideas and perspectives. In effect, this would function as a meta-analysis of public input—allowing individuals to submit thoughtful proposals and analyses addressing societal challenges. With today’s technology, it would be entirely feasible to build platforms where ideas and evidence could be shared, reviewed, and discussed.

While the Feather Party would often serve to tip votes one way or another, it could also introduce policy initiatives it believes reflect the needs of everyday people. This would likely require a structured process for gathering ideas from across society—whether from citizens, academics, or public officials—and synthesizing them into coherent proposals through vetting and review. Party members are voted into position based on their ability to critially think and be objective.

Representing that independent
voters were here.

Party members could then evaluate which proposals best address identified problems using the decision-making matrix. Those that show the strongest potential could be presented to the broader governing bodies for consideration. Even when proposals are not adopted, the act of examining old problems through new lenses often leads to better understanding and more innovative solutions. 

The decision-making matrix itself would need to include multiple dimensions, such as constitutionality, economic and social impact, scientific evidence, ethical considerations, and international implications. Policies that perform well across these criteria could then be opened for public discussion and debate. Those that make sense and reasonable but don't cut the mustard still could be open to public review in case they become more important in the future. 

(In other words, the only right answer is that which helps achieve societal and national objectives.)

At that stage, the party could either leave the ideas in the public sphere or formally propose legislation. The same matrix could also be applied to proposals originating from existing parties. Because the hypothetical Feather Party is not designed as an opposition group, it would simply evaluate each proposal on its merits and decide whether to support or oppose it. This additional perspective could help reduce legislative deadlock by introducing a fresh, principled viewpoint.

 (Maybe it just adds to the complexity, so make up your own mind. There is some good points for a third lens outside of current perspectives and some against.).

Importantly, party members would not be required to vote in any particular way. They would be encouraged to review the guidance, analysis, and feedback, then vote according to their conscience. The only expectation would be that votes are cast based on principles and ideas—not partisan advantage or special interest influence. When viable ideas align with core values, they should be supported; when they do not, new ideas should be solicited, vetted, and thoughtfully debated.

This is just a discussion for fun. However, one might wonder if 15% of the voting population and legislative seats would have a positive impact. What do you think? Stupid idea or could it have merit? Either way is just fine. 🤔