The Persistence Of Filibuster In The United States Senate

The parliamentary maneuver of filibuster in the U.S.has always been the subject of considerable debate.The filibuster was not written in the constitution but it can effectively prevent the business of Senate.In modern Senate,filibuster is ubiquitous but virtually invisible.Most senators have already expressed their frustration over this procedure and senators also took measure to eliminate or limit filibuster,however,the filibuster still exists.This thesis will star by exploring this strange phenomenon that why does the filibuster persist and thus give reader a clear picture of filibuster.This subject will be approached from two angles.First the author will examine the evolution of the filibuster in history.The historical research method is necessary to help this research because the incremental change of rules of filibuster has shaped its current form.The author traces its origin,how did it evolve into the weapon's role and then select three system designs which are Rule XXII,two-track system and hold much relevant to filibuster to illustrate its persistence.In addition to that,the nature and effects of filibusters have changes significantly as the Senate has grown larger and busier,leading to the increase use of filibuster.Second,in the flowing research,the author takes the interpretive research method because this thesis needs to explain its persistence from the perspective of individual senators.On the basis of lots of examples and cautious reasoning,the author analyzes the persistence of filibuster from five factors which are risk-aversion,retaliation,lacking of incentive,stickiness of norms and reconciliation.The systemic causes of its persistence are complex and often ignored.In brief,the interaction of deficiencies of filibuster rules and interests of senators together contributed to the persistence of filibuster.At last,the author concluded that there exists no incentive inside or outside to advance filibuster reform.Thus,the filibuster cannot be resolved immediately and simply.But it is still necessary to channel it in proper direction and enhance the political cost of filibuster if the Senate wants to work more efficiently.And the last but not the least is that senators should also keep self-restraint and courtesy in filibustering.