Michael D. Behiels is a Canadian political scientist specializing in Canadian politics, federalism, and party systems. He is a professor emeritus in the Department of Political Science at Western University (formerly the University of Western Ontario) in London, Ontario.
Education and Academic Career
- Behiels earned his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Toronto.
- He joined the faculty of Western University, where he has taught and conducted research for several decades.
- He has held visiting positions at institutions such as the University of Calgary and the University of British Columbia.
Research Focus
Behiels’s scholarship concentrates on:
- The structure and evolution of Canadian federalism, particularly the relationship between the federal government and the provinces.
- The dynamics of Canadian party politics, including the development and transformation of the Liberal and Conservative parties.
- Quebec’s political role within Canada, including the rise of Quebec nationalism and its impact on national policy.
Selected Publications
- Canada and the United States: The Politics of Partnership (co‑edited, 1994)
- The Canadian Party System (1997) – a detailed analysis of party development and electoral change in Canada.
- Federalism in Canada: New Foundations and Future Directions (2000) – examines institutional reforms and intergovernmental relations.
- A Land of Two Nations? Canada’s 2021 Federal Election and the Future of Canadian Federalism (2022) – assesses recent electoral outcomes in the context of federal‑provincial dynamics.
Honours and Professional Service
- Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.
- Former president of the Canadian Political Science Association (CPSA).
- Editorial board member for journals such as Canadian Journal of Political Science and Publius: The Journal of Federalism.
Public Impact
Behiels is frequently cited in Canadian media and policy discussions regarding electoral reform, federal‑provincial negotiations, and the political implications of Quebec’s status within Canada. His expertise is sought by government committees and think‑tanks addressing constitutional and intergovernmental issues.
Current Status
As of the latest available information, Michael D. Behiels holds an emeritus position at Western University and continues to contribute to scholarly literature and public discourse on Canadian politics.
