Not just about Quebec: Accounting for Francophones' attitudes towards Canada

Abstract

The present study seeks to empirically explore the influence of language on attitudes towards one's country. Canada is used as an exploratory case. Though language has played a prominent role in the country's politics, its role on attitudes among Francophones remains markedly unknown. Using original survey data gathered from Francophones in Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick and Manitoba, the study specifically explores the influence of linguistic factors on Francophones' attitudes towards Canada. The results reveal that being from Quebec (or not) is in fact an important determinant in attitudinal differences towards Canada among Francophones. However, this result is tempered by the fact that other variables demonstrate a greater influence. Notably, perceptions of French being threatened significantly lead to more negative attitudes towards Canada.