Politics on the Offensive: Examining the State of Civil Debate in Canadian Question Period

Abstract

This paper analyzes the effects of civility on the efficacy of communications in the Canadian House of Commons. This is accomplished through a content analysis of statements made during Question Period by Members of Parliament. I argue that civility (or incivility) and rhetoric are not mere formalities in Parliamentary discourse, but are key to the ways in which politicians represent their positions and attempt to sway opinion. I hypothesize that these forms of civility and rhetoric may have an agenda-setting effect on the issues debated in Parliament. My paper thus sets out to explore the impacts of civil and uncivil discourse on the proceedings of Question Period, as well as the implications these impacts may have for Canadians and their engagement in politics.