“Cynicism and apathy are threatening Canada’s political system” according to former MLA Dale Lovick, and he wants to do something about it.

Lovick is teaching a three-credit course called The Theory and Practice of Politics during Malaspina University-College’s summer session which begins May 3.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

“It’s an introduction to political engagement and awareness based primarily on my previous experience,” said Lovick, who served as MLA from 1986 until he retired in 2001. “The course is intended to stimulate interest in and awareness of how politics operates in the democratic and open society. The fundamental question to be answered in the course is why politics and politicians are seemingly held in such low esteem.”

Lovick said he recognized shortly after he was elected that “there is a disconnect between politicians and the electorate. “People’s expectations of politicians tend to be unrealistic,” he said.

“I believe that our system in Canada, and for that matter, throughout the western world is in real danger of dying as a result of a combination of cynicism and apathy. So part of my reason for teaching this course is to try to remind people of what politics is and isn’t, what it can and what it can not do.”

Lovick said the course would interest students enrolled in liberal arts or journalism programs, but also other citizens. “Given my background, this will be an academically rigorous course,” he said.

“I’ll stress an interactive model of teaching – it won’t be just me standing in front of the class talking. I’ll use game playing to illustrate basic political truths, and show movies that capture some of the essential political realities as well as some textbooks do. The course should be fun, challenging and informative.”

Lovick holds a Masters degree in English from the University of B.C. and a Masters in Canadian Studies from Carlton University. He began working at Malaspina in 1969 and taught English and Canadian Studies. Lovick took a leave of absence from Malaspina when he was elected to the legislature in 1986. He retired from politics in 2001.

To register for The Theory and Practice of Politics, call 740-6160 or visit the website at: www.viu.ca/timetable/summersession.asp.