Introduction to the Canadian Political Environment

Description

This course examines the cultural, social and economic context in which political actors in Canada seek to protect and advance their interests and power. Attention is given to divisions or cleavages as well as unifying elements. Topics will include language, culture, political culture, economic class cleavages, gender, ethnic diversity, political socialization and social movements, interest groups and Canada's external political environment provided by the United States and the rest of the world. This course, along with PO2220, Introduction to Canadian Political Institutions, Federalism and the Constitution, constitutes a full year introduction to Canadian politics. The two courses provide preparation for further studies in Canadian politics at the post secondary level.