An understanding of the Canadian political institutions is especially important for those planning a career in Social Work. In particular, the course examines human rights from the perspective of the Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms; the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, and the civil service. Central concepts include democracy, representation, and active citizenship. (Formerly POL 27A) (POL 101 and POL 102 are equivalent to POL 27A/B).