Telling a Different Story: Canadian Citizens and their Democracy in the Digital Age

Abstract

The new centrality of the digital public sphere has disrupted politics, and generated questions about the robustness and sustainability of liberal democracies. This chapter draws on recent public opinion research to examine trends in Canadians’ attitudes toward democracy and their engagement in formal and informal politics. The data suggests that technological and political changes both in Canada and abroad have produced concern among Canadians about the health of their democracy. But longitudinal comparison reveals that despite these disruptions, and contrary to prevailing public narratives, Canadians have become more engaged and more satisfied with their democracy in recent years.