2.1 Assignment
For this assignment, you will be arguing against the position that Canada should get rid of all political parties.
The scenario
A friend has forwarded an essay to you, written by Canadian political commentator Andrew Nikiforuk. In it, the author argues that we should get rid of political parties all together if we are to restore democracy. You read through the essay, but decide that although it contains some interesting ideas, Canada needs to have political parties for our democracy to function. You write back to your friend explaining this.
Your task
Read an abridged version of Nikiforuk's essay below. You might have to look up some words such as "partisan." Do your best to understand his point of view without feeling like you have to look up every single fact.
Party's Over: Why We Need to Abolish Political Parties
Formulate a response to at least three points made by the author. You must use the readings from this section to argue against his position.
Using your points, write a response to your friend in which you thank him or her for forwarding this article, but which you explain why we can't just abolish political parties.
You should know that Canadian Members of Parliament do not have to belong to any political party. They can run as independent candidates or can leave their party after taking office and sit as independents.
You will need to write this in the form of a letter or email in which you address a friend.