Final answer:
In summary, a unicameral parliament has one legislative chamber, offering efficiency in lawmaking but potentially less oversight, whereas a bicameral parliament has two chambers, which provide diverse representation and checks and balances, but may slow the legislative process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between unicameral and bicameral parliaments lies in the number of legislative chambers they comprise. A unicameral parliament has one chamber, while a bicameral parliament consists of two chambers. A unicameral system is typically viewed as more efficient in the legislative process as it requires only one set of lawmakers to debate and pass legislation. In contrast, a bicameral system includes an additional chamber which serves as a check on the first, with the intention of introducing broader consideration of legislation and representing diverse segments of society - such as different territories or socioeconomic classes.
In terms of oversight and preventing the concentration of power, bicameral systems offer a natural 'veto point' that can prevent hasty legislation if one chamber does not agree with the other. This inter-chamber check reflects a broader range of public concerns and interests. However, the efficiency of legislation can be compromised, as both chambers must agree for a bill to pass into law. The bicameral approach is often found in larger countries and in nations seeking to represent diverse interests within their political system.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Unicameral legislatures tend to operate more efficiently, but they may lack the checks and balances provided by bicameral systems, which can lead to less oversights and a concentration of power. Bicameral legislatures, by design, incorporate a wider array of viewpoints and provide a system of checks to ensure that laws are well-considered, though it may slow the legislative process.