Commentary
Will the 21st century be marked by the flourishing of democracy or its decline? The latter seems more likely, according to Andrew Coyne’s latest book, “The Crisis of Canadian Democracy” (Sutherland House). The word “crisis” can be overused, but it is warranted here.
Canadians tend to level criticism at places farther afield, yet fail to see the flaws in our own institutions. As Coyne writes, despite worrying trends elsewhere in the world, “we do not live in the system we think we do.” Indeed, there are plenty of flaws in Canada that need addressing: less-than equal representation, low voter turnout, a highly centralized executive, a castrated cabinet, and paltry levels of democratic discourse. Coyne’s list is exhaustive….