The People's House of Commons: Theories of Democracy in Contention

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Sharp insight into Canada’s democratic power struggles

This is a strong pick if you like politics that goes beyond headlines and really explains how institutions work under pressure. It digs into the tug-of-war between parties, courts, MPs, and public expectations in a way that feels serious but deeply relevant. Readers interested in democracy’s hidden machinery will likely find it thoughtful, authoritative, and surprisingly consequential.

  • Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing Nominee (2007)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

The People's House of Commons: Theories of Democracy in Contention

Regular price RM52.00 MYR
Unit price
per
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ISBN: 9780802094650
Authors: David E. Smith
Date of Publication: 2007-04-21
Format: Paperback
Related Collections: History, Law, Politics
Goodreads rating: 3.75
(rated by 8 readers)

Description

Canada's House of Commons has come under considerable attack in recent years. Many critics have contended that the House has been unresponsive to public opinion, and that its party leaders have too much control, while leaving individual MPs essentially powerless. The House has also faced challenges by the courts since the introduction of the Charter, a powerful bureaucracy equipped with specialized knowledge, and new telecommunications systems that are redefining the transfer of information. Through an examination of academic, judicial, political, and legal commentary, The People's House of Commons explores the role of the House as a public institution. While addressing much of the criticism that has been levelled at the House, David E. Smith considers the competing political models and inherent tensions and their affect on public understanding. Smith maintains that court decisions are transforming the political system from one dominated by parties to one that promotes individual participation. He argues that reforms such as fixed election dates or stronger parliamentary committees have constitutional significance since their implementation would alter the practice of responsible government, which for more than a century has been a party government. A definitive work by one of Canada's foremost experts in the field of political science, The People's House of Commons explores the ramifications of many of the changes currently being proposed to Canada's political system, with particular reference to their affect on prerogative power, parliamentary privilege, party discipline, bicameralism, and the role of the opposition.
 

Sharp insight into Canada’s democratic power struggles

This is a strong pick if you like politics that goes beyond headlines and really explains how institutions work under pressure. It digs into the tug-of-war between parties, courts, MPs, and public expectations in a way that feels serious but deeply relevant. Readers interested in democracy’s hidden machinery will likely find it thoughtful, authoritative, and surprisingly consequential.

  • Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing Nominee (2007)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.