Proportional representation differs from winner-take-all voting systems primarily in how votes are translated into seats within legislatures. In proportional representation, seats are allocated to political parties in accordance with the percentage of votes they receive, thus reflecting a broader spectrum of public opinion. Conversely, winner-take-all systems award all seats to the candidate or party that receives the most votes in a particular district, often leading to a lack of representation for minority groups. The former typically enhances pluralism and coalition-building, while the latter may promote a more polarized political landscape.