The Constitution of Canada - (Constitutional Systems of the World) 2nd Edition by Jeremy Webber (Paperback)

About the Book

"The book introduces and describes the principal characteristics of the Canadian constitution, including Canada's institutional structure and the principal drivers of Canadian constitutional development. The constitution is set in its historical context, noting especially the complex interaction of national and regional societies that continues to shape the constitution of Canada. The book argues that aspects of the constitution are best understood in 'agonistic' terms, as the product of a continuing encounter or negotiation, with each of the contending interpretations rooted in significantly different visions of the relationship among peoples and societies in Canada. It suggests how these agonistic relationships have, in complex ways, found expression in distinctive doctrines of Canadian constitutional law and how these doctrines represent approaches to constitutional legality that may be more widely applicable. As such, the book charts the Canadian expression of trans-societal constitutional themes: democracy; parliamentarism; the rule of law; federalism; human rights; and Indigenous rights, and describes the country that has resulted from the interplay of these themes"--

Book Synopsis

The first edition of this text quickly established itself as the classic introduction to the Canadian constitution. Setting it in its historical context, noting especially the complex interaction of national and regional societies, it shows how the constitution continues to morph and shape itself.

These changes are explored through key constitutional themes: democracy; parliamentarism; the rule of law; federalism; human rights; and Indigenous rights, and describes the country that has resulted from the interplay of these themes.

Clarity of expression and explanation, which never veers into simplicity, combined with the author's expertise, makes this the ideal starting point for the student or comparative lawyer keen to gain a strong understanding of how Canadian democracy and government works.

Review Quotes

Jeremy Webber has given us a rich, contextual account of Canada's constitution. Webber moves beyond the confines of constitutional texts and judicial decisions and grounds his account in the circumstances of the country's history. Only such an account can capture the deep diversity that is the hallmark of Canada's constitutional culture.

The Constitution of Canada is a masterpiece - an outstanding and original study of the Canadian constitutional experience by one of Canada's leading legal scholars. Webber explains the history, characteristics and resourcefulness of the living constitution in non-technical and illuminating language. He also shows how the constitution is shaped by the engagement and interaction of the diverse people of Canada, who are simultaneously subjects and active citizens of it - a dynamic he calls "agonistic constitutionalism."

This book is an umbrella of fundamental principles, covering flexibility, accommodation and negotiation necessary to enable members of a constitutional community who may disagree on issues but who want to remain bound together within a country and society. Impressive!
Journal of Parliamentary and Political Law

About the Author

Jeremy Webber is Professor of Law, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.