Institutions and Behaviour in Canadian Parliament

In this course, we ask how institutions shape the behaviour of legislators in Canada’s parliament. We will explore key rules and norms of parliament and examine their foundations. In tandem, we will investigate the behaviour of prime ministers, cabinet members, backbench MPs, senators, and other political actors to gain a better understanding of what motivates parliamentary behaviour. Through the course, students will gain a deep understanding of why parliamentarians behave the way they do and how their behaviour affects governance and the lives of people in Canada. Topics include the Crown prerogative, responsible government, party discipline and caucusing, executive dominance, policymaking in parliamentary committees, and the Senate reforms.