Unit 8
Governance in a Global Era: The Future of the Canadian Public Sector and the Threat to Social Cohesion

Introduction

Unit 8 addresses one of the major challenges facing modern Western democracies—the threat to societal cohesion. The relatively cohesive liberal democracies of the post-war period are in a state of flux because of the turmoil generated by fundamental changes introduced by globalization, technological innovation, political and social shifts, and the like. One major issue that has emerged and that is examined in this unit is the growth of social exclusion and the political, social, and economic instability this breeds. The public policy consensus of the past has come undone and is yet to be rebuilt. This is a period of challenge, crisis, and opportunity. Such times also test the boundaries of social cohesion. This unit also serves as a way for us to reflect on the broader range of issues that other units in the course covered. The question that remains for us to consider is this: What is the future of governance in this global era, and more significantly, what is the likely fate of democracy?

Learning Objectives

When you have completed Unit 8, you should be able to achieve the following learning objectives.

1. Assess the impact of neo-liberal policy on Canada
2. Identify and explain the various national responses to changes brought about by the new global political economy
3. Define social cohesion
4. Explain why social cohesion and the problem of social exclusion have become so important in relation to the problems of modern governance
5. Evaluate why the issue of governance have become so important today