Moral Foundations of Canadian Federalism

Book excerpt: 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.