Democratic Principles of Canadian Government

Rule of Law:

• Citizens decide on laws by voting for the people who make the laws.

• Everyone is subject to the law of Canada; it applies to everyone.

• No one is above the law.• Laws can be changed but only after voted on

and discussed by elected officials

Why is the value beneficial?

• They improve and protect citizen’s rights• No one is above the law

Common Good:

• Laws are passed that create the most benefit for the most people.

• This does not mean that everyone benefits from laws equally, but that the greater good of the citizens of Canada must be considered.

Why is the value beneficial?

• Refers to the best interest of all the people living in a community or society such as Canada

• These interests include peace, justice, safety and economic stability

• Elected officials are responsible to keep the common good of people in mind when making political decisions

• In a large country like Canada, governments try to make decisions that will benefit most people

Majority Rules:

• The laws must be supported by the majority of Canadians. This usually means 50%+, but not always.

Why is the value beneficial?

• In general, what most people want is for the benefit of the whole

Minority Rights:

• The rights of the minority need to be the same as those of the majority.

• The majority rule does not apply to minority rights.

Why is the value beneficial?

• Rights of minority groups are recognized and protected by the majority

• The minority enjoys the same legal, economic, and social equality rights as the majority

• For example – Religious Rights in Canada

Example of Religious Rights Case in Canada:

This is an actual case known as Pandori v. Peel Board of Education

Explanation of the case and the resolution/outcome…

Some discussion topics:

• Religious Rights vs. Public Safety

• Human Rights Violations