Different proposals for the reintroduction of choice by lot as a way of performing political functions are studied. Selecting legislative or governing positions by chance would reduce the impact of economic power, would allow a more trustworthy representation of minority groups, and would prevent the rise of an oligarchy. However, there would occur a loss of legislative continuity and, specially, of accountability of the governing towards the governed. Despite their weak points those proposals are useful for a better understanding of the problems of electoral representation and for detecting their causes.
political representation; representation mechanisms; lot