Voting systems profoundly affect electoral outcomes by determining how votes are counted and translated into seats. Systems like first-past-the-post tend to favor larger parties, potentially marginalizing smaller ones and leading to winner-takes-all scenarios. In contrast, systems such as proportional representation allow for a more equitable distribution of seats based on the actual share of votes received, encouraging a more diverse political landscape. Additionally, the design of the voting system can influence voter turnout, engagement, and overall perceptions of the legitimacy of elections, shaping the dynamics of governance.