ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the main results of the empirical studies included within the volume. It provides a general interpretation of the political consequences of primary elections on political elites and representative institutions drawing together the main themes that have emerged from the empirical work so far. The chapter discusses how the studies presented within the volume contribute to the scientific and political debate on primary elections and how the present volume fits into the existing scholarly literature. In general, findings suggest that the candidate and party leaders selection procedures may have an impact on political elites especially for what relates their patterns of careers. Conversely, much less effects are found on sociopolitical profiles of candidates and party leaders, so that it is not possible to argue any clear impact on elites renewal. Finally, this concluding chapter frames further analyses on the topic on the basis of the findings of the book.
