Fraser Institute & democracy

A little something for your serious readers to do. They might want to watch how the Fraser Institute paints the landscape around them in routine, calculated, identifiable steps. Make notes if you like.
 
(1) Powerful corporate men (all rich, white and un-elected by the way) quietly, and hidden from view, develop some 'suggested government policy' that will get them even more money and more power. 
 
(2) Their idea is then proposed in carefully selected media op-eds by their own hired policy wonks like Andrew Coyne. 
 
(3) Harper of course says nothing.  It is after all just a space filler in a newspaper right? 
 
(4) Now, with their concept 'out there' and naturally read by many, some actual experts on the topic begin to take serious notice. Contrary ideas are put forward. Opposing views are published. Seeds are planted.
 
(5) If asked about the on going discussion, a Harper spokesperson will use words like, rights and freedom, hard working, greatest nation on earth, your government and strong economy but never ever actually refer to the Fraser Institute concept - or even the op-ed piece. 
 
(6) It doesn't take long. Really serious opponents of the so far completely theoretical idea are now easily singled out, vilified, silenced, moved out or bought off. Again without any mention of the Fraser Institute or it's proposal because, after all, it is not a government policy. Just some 'newspaper guy talking.
 
(7) Suddenly, when expected opposition has been sidelined in advance, the exact Fraser Institute concept, unseen by most and unchanged by any debate, is hidden in an omnibus file and called "A Bill to Support the Christian Family and Their Right to a Joyous Life on a Bright, Warm Sunny Day”. 
 
(8) And then "the cover" is developed.  Harper is the talk of the media by accidentally wearing a singularly noticeable sweater or greeting a minor king from some important voting block or bravely pointing fingers at Russia and loudly fighting off imaginary terrorists and traitors to Canada. Or being seen showing support for the troops or protecting farmers from imaginary strangers.   
 
(9) The media is easily moved off in this other direction by government authored bulletins - timed for TV sound bites and sized to fit selected columns - while Fraser Institute corporate policy quietly becomes the law of your land. 
 
(10) You loose. And you didn't even know you were in the game.

Dave Winter