Canadian Studies Relevance.pdf

Stuart Gill discusses the relevance of Canadian Studies, citing personal connections to Canada, including family ties and academic involvement. The title "Something Still to Find" is taken from a book of poems by Douglas LePan, reflecting hope and expectation for new discoveries about Canada. Despite the Canadian government's decreased support for Canadian Studies, Gill believes there is still value in academic insight and public diplomacy.

Canada's identity has been a longstanding topic of discussion among Canadian academics, with many exploring what it means to be Canadian. Roy MacGregor notes that Canadians are obsessed with self-introspection, which may stem from a colonial mentality and a sense of inferiority. Gill sympathizes with this interpretation, having studied Canadian history and Canadian-American relations.

The 1970s saw growing nationalism in Canada, with concerns about Quebec's place in the federation and the influence of the US. Historian William Kilbourn described Canada as a "non-nation" and a "blank on the map," but also saw it as offering an alternative to the US. Canadian Studies rose to prominence during this time, promoted by the government.

Today, the North American partnership remains significant, but the international sphere has changed since the 1970s. The Canadian intellectual community, including those in the diaspora, continues to explore what it means to be Canadian from an international perspective. Notable works include those by Patrick James and Mark Kasoff, offering new insights into Canadian identity and its place in the world.