i dont accept the premise of this question. one, i do not think average Canadians "fight for partisan politics" - yes, some are actively involved in campaigning, but to most its just a pasttime, worthy of lively debate and eventual, but reluctant, acceptance that our political options are quite limited. ... but lets hope that the Green Party becomes seen as a viable alternative to all three dominant parties, vis a vis various specific issues (Greens are fiscally conservative, promote social welfare, and advance stewardship of the environment) and two, i do think that Canadians fight for the strength of their communities via participation in local health, sports and religious organizations. a great many more people are involved in these sorts of activities than are involved in politiking. honestly, im baffled as to how anyone could fight for the strength of their economic system, other that simply using their dollars to make various statements, like buying locally, supporting (or not) unions, never using credit cards, etc. that's such an abstract concept that i dont think is worth debating without grounding it with specific examples. that's why i did find birdy's comment interesting. it took a complex issue out of the abstract and into the concrete. to debate the concepts in isolation is a pissing match.