25-H102 Oil, Populism, and the Political Economy of Alberta – Trevor Harrison

Please Note: This class will be recorded and individual sessions available to registered students for viewing outside of the actual course time.  

Alberta’s recent political history has been tumultuous with the rise and fall of different political parties and five premiers since 2014. This course will examine Alberta’s unique political culture, its history of populism, and federal-provincial relations. It will also examine the role of oil and gas, Indigenous peoples, and urbanization in the province’s development. Attention will be given to clashes between economic development and environmental concerns. Specific focus will be given to the province’s finances and expenditures, particularly in areas of education, health and social services. The course concludes with a look at the premiership of Danielle Smith and the future of democracy in Alberta.
Instructor: Trevor Harrison

Trevor W. Harrison is a Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the University of Lethbridge. He was formerly Director of Parkland Institute (2011-2021), an Alberta-wide research organization. He is best known for his studies in political sociology, political economy and public policy. He is the author, co-author, or co-editor of eleven books, including a self-published book of poetry. A collection of short stories is slated for publication in fall 2024. A memoir of traveling to India in 1976 is scheduled for spring 2025. He is a frequent and well-known contributor to public media, including radio and television.