Artemis II Astronaut Jeremy Hansen visits Prof. Michael Byers’ class
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen discussed his training for the upcoming Artemis II mission in a webinar with the Outer Space Institute and POLI 369B. Hansen advised students to set goals for themselves and follow their academic passions.
Prof. Kathryn Harrison says the carbon tax is needed to reach emissions targets
Professor Kathryn Harrison explains that Canada is on track to miss its 2030 emissions goal. Replacing the carbon tax and still achieving the target would be extremely difficult, given how slow regulation is.
Prof. Kathryn Harrison discusses the Carbon Tax as a financial incentive
Professor Kathryn Harrison says the carbon tax is meant to financially incentivise people to reduce their emissions. Regardless of personal consumption, everyone receives the same rebate. While imperfect, no better solution has been proposed.
Prof. Stewart Prest warns against relying on a single poll
Professor Stewart Prest says the recent poll showing “broad dissatisfaction” with the B.C. NDP government in several policy areas is “bad news” for both the NDP and B.C. United. However, the opposition’s vote remains divided, limiting its impact.
“It’s goint to be a fascinating seat to watch” – Prof. Stewart Prest on the fate of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in B.C.’s election
Professor Stewart Prest highlights the competition for the West Vancouver-Sea to Sky seat with the incumbent BC United MLA retiring. Prest believes the Liberal Party’s recent rebranding, a divided right and a strong NDP campaign could lead to NDP success.
Prof. Stewart Prest discusses Mayor Ken Sim’s voting absences
Professor Stewart Prest understands why Vancouverites are concerned that the mayor is missing council votes. However, the mayor has many responsibilities, and the ABC’s majority often ensures policies pass anyway.
Prof. Michael Byers discusses UNRWA funding
Ireland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs intends to press Trudeau about UNRWA funding. Professor Michael Byers doubts Ireland has much sway over Canada’s foreign policy in the Middle East but explains it is reasonable for Canada and Ireland to fill the funding gap caused by other countries withdrawing support.
Prof. Gerald Baier surprised by Pierre Poilievre’s fundraisers
Professor Gerald Baier is suprised by Pierre Poilievre’s choice to host fundraising events in private homes rather than more public venues given Poilievre’s past comments about access to the prime minister and ministers.
Op-ed: Prof Michael Byers discusses Inuit connection to outer space
Professor Michael Byers advocates for hiring more Inuk astronauts in the Canadian Space Agency due to their connection to the Arctic and outer space. Their experiences living in harmony with the unique Arctic seasons means they automatically match the desired psychological profile and as such are uniquely positioned to succeed.
MA alum Haley Magrill awarded microgrant from Glocal Foundation of Canada
Haley Magrill’s project investigates legal constraints to misinformation legislation in five democracies and provides a comparative analysis for potential Canadian responses to social media misinformation. A key question of the project is how to balance free speech and preventing harmful misinformation spread.