Voice of the Canadian West | Preston Manning | EP 211

The Blueprint for a Better Canada: Insights from Preston Manning

In this episode of "Voice of the Canadian West," host Jordan Peterson welcomes Preston Manning, a seasoned politician and advocate for democratic education. Manning, founder of both the Manning Centre for Building Democracy and the Manning Foundation for Democratic Education, shares his insights on national unity and political innovation. His extensive experience, including founding two major Canadian political parties and serving as a Member of Parliament, frames a powerful discussion on addressing the challenges facing Canada today.

Core Concepts and Philosophies:

• National Unity: Manning emphasizes that national unity should never be taken for granted in a country as large and diverse as Canada. He is particularly concerned about the alienation in Western Canada and the misunderstandings between different regions.
• Political Innovation: Manning discusses his experiences in forming new political parties as avenues to address regional grievances and represent unvoiced populations more effectively.

Practical Strategies and Advice:

• Engagement in Political Processes: Citizens should actively engage in political processes to ensure their voices are heard. Manning’s story of starting a political party with just a small group highlights the potential impact of grassroots movements.
• Educational Initiatives: Strengthening the knowledge and skills of those participating in politics through institutions like the Manning Centre is crucial for informed governance.

Supporting Evidence:

Manning points to historical examples and his own successful career in politics to underline the effectiveness of his strategies. His work led to significant political shifts in Canada, influencing the political landscape and showcasing the power of concerted effort and strategic thinking.

Personal Application:

Manning personally applies his philosophies through continuous involvement in educational initiatives and by writing extensively on the interplay between faith and politics, as well as on democratic reforms.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques:

• Democratic Education: Tools like the programs offered by the Manning Centre can provide citizens with the knowledge necessary to effectively participate in and influence political processes.
• Public Speaking and Engagement: Manning stresses the importance of direct communication with constituents, suggesting that politicians should focus on grassroots interactions to gauge and address public concerns directly.

This podcast episode offers a rich exploration of how dedicated individuals can influence national policies and foster greater unity and understanding across diverse populations. Manning's blend of practical advice, personal application, and insightful philosophies provides a compelling roadmap for anyone looking to make a significant impact in their community or country.