Canadian Political Parties and Elections

Elections and political parties play a key role in Canadian politics. In this course, we will evaluate the purpose and goals of elections as it relates to democratic representation in Canada. We will also analyse the development of political parties in light of those goals. By the end of the course, students will develop a strong knowledge of federal and provincial elections and political parties, as well as their impacts on the lives of people in Canada. Topics include historical and theoretical perspectives, representation, ideology, leadership contests, financing, candidate selection, party discipline, and electoral reform.