Here is a well-written (and actually readable)

argument for Initiative and Referendum.

Do-it-yourself government
Paul Jacob

April 11, 2004
...
Politicians do not listen. With all the advantages of incumbency, they don't have to listen. Worse yet, they do not believe they should listen to what you and I think. Sure, they say they are fighting for us little guys, but they treat us not as sovereigns, certainly not as their bosses, not even as their equals. To them we are simple-minded serfs in need of their legal guardianship.
...
You can make this happen by voting and working for initiative and referendum at all levels of government. If you live in an initiative state, use the process to do good. It gives those battling for what's right at least a fighting chance, because initiatives don't change their mind after they win. They're written in black and white.
...
If you want something done right, sometimes you have to do it yourself. We need initiative and referendum at every level of government. I trust the people a great deal more than I trust the politicians. How about you?

I came to that story via Mr. Pterodactyl and his links from this post.