The Working Class and Politics in Canada

Working-class Canadians are often overlooked by politicians, policy makers, and political scientists. However, the working class accounts for a substantial share of Canada’s population, and class differences have enduring relevance for how people relate to politics. The Working Class and Politics in Canada argues that changing labour-market patterns, shifting electoral alignments, and increased socio-economic inequality make it essential to revisit the political importance of class.

The contributors to this indispensable volume re-examine the experience of workers in Canadian politics and society, considering the relationship between the working class and political science, political parties, voting patterns, and democratic engagement. How do class status and other aspects of identity – such as region, language, and gender – determine voting behaviour? What happens to working-class representation when the country’s political institutions primarily reflect the priorities of affluent constituents?

Drawing on new data and original insights, The Working Class and Politics in Canada offers an up-to-date and much-needed assessment of class and its place in contemporary Canadian politics.