Since June 26 there's been a lot of talk and a lot of debate about where, why, and what's at heart. One of the things that seems to be happening in the broader context is that there almost seems to be, if you're paranoid or a big thinker, perhaps, a bit of a war on information in this country. In the most fundamental sources of information--centres of excellence, research grants--and in the purveyors of information--NGOs, etc.--there have been lots of cuts in areas where information is being brought out to the public.
I perhaps think that we need to look at the fact that this may be connected to that. It's a very troubling trend for Canada to know less about our social condition than we do about pop culture. As I've said before, I think Lady Gaga is fascinating, but I'd much rather understand the real issues that happen on the ground with respect to the needs of the most vulnerable Canadians in the country.