The Moral Foundations of Canadian Federalism
Paradoxes, Achievements, and Tragedies of Nationhood
- Publisher
- McGill-Queen's University Press
- Initial publish date
- Mar 1996
- Category
- General, General
-
Paperback / softback
- ISBN
- 9780773514225
- Publish Date
- Mar 1996
- List Price
- $37.95
-
Hardback
- ISBN
- 9780773514058
- Publish Date
- Mar 1996
- List Price
- $110.00
Classroom Resources
Where to buy it
Description
LaSelva argues that Canadian federalism is founded on a vision of a nation in which multiple identities and multiple loyalties can flourish within a framework of common political nationality. He contends that this dualistic belief affects not only our understanding of Canadian identity but also a host of fundamental concepts, including fraternity, justice, democracy, and federalism itself. LaSelva offers a compelling reconsideration of Confederation and of the pivotal role of George Étienne-Cartier, one of the fathers of Confederation, in both the achievement of confederation and the creation of a distinctively Canadian federalist theory. Given the current debates about Quebec sovereignty and Native self-government, the future of the Canadian federation is uncertain. The Moral Foundations of Canadian Federalism provides a timely and novel perspective in support of Canadian federalism.
About the author
Samuel V. LaSelva is professor of political science at the University of British Columbia.
Editorial Reviews
"An extremely interesting and first-rate piece of work that makes a very useful contribution to the current debates about nationalism and federalism and the Canadian political community. LaSelva has a sharp, inquisitive intelligence to bring to bear on questions that have rarely been addressed in depth." Reg Whitaker, Department of Political Science, York University.