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Argument Against Native Sovereignty in Canda Essay

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This paper supports Thomas Flanagan's argument against Native sovereignty in Canada; through an evaluation of the meanings of sovereignty it is clear that Native sovereignty can not coexist with Canadian sovereignty. Flanagan outlines two main interpretations of sovereignty. Through an analysis of these ideas it is clear that Native Sovereignty in Canada can not coexist with Canadian sovereignty.

The first interpretation of sovereignty that is examined by Flanagan views sovereignty in an international sense. Sovereignty for these leaders means gaining more international power and acceptance. Flanagan argues that major international bodies such as the United Nations will be accepting such an attempt at sovereignty (71). As the second …show more content…

Flanagan's analysis of Native sovereignty internationally is effectively argued. International organizations such as the World Trade Organization and United Nations would be hesitant to accept sovereignty of Aboriginal people. Although it is commonly known that many bands within Canada have access to significant natural resources the majority do not. Flanagan is very direct in stating that (outside of transfer payments from the government of Canada which would presumably stop to a sovereign nations) most bands are very weak economically (73). It would be extremely difficult therefore to afford to send delegates to these international bodies. Without significant monetary support no sovereign state can be involved in significant international organizations. Flanagan also soundly refutes the idea of a united Aboriginal sovereign state. Most Aboriginals would likely agree the greatest evil committed against them by European settlers has been the attempts of assimilation. By gaining sovereignty they would be free from these attempts, at least in theory. However in order to develop a significant voice working as one would result into a similar problem. As mentioned above language, religion and other major difference would make a union extremely difficult. Therefore with these issues present it would not be possible for native sovereignty to coexist with Canadian sovereignty.

Flanagan examines sovereignty as originally defined by philosophers; this definition defines

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