Sample Questons

The screening questions would certainly provide greater insight on the average Canadian's understanding of foreign policy. I also agree with Lee and Stephan that we should enlarge the scope of questioning, including other areas of Canada's foreign policy and global commitments. Canada's involvement in Afghanistan is directly linked to its alliance with the United States and its membership in NATO. Karlson also has some good questions relating to Canada's involvement in future missions. We could also examine what effects the Afghanistan mission has had on public perception. Perhaps asking individuals if Canada's involvement in Afghanistan would make them more or less likely to support future interventions. Or if the Afghanistan mission has given them a more positive or negative view about Canada's membership in NATO.

I think its extremely important to formulate a question that addresses Canada's membership in NATO. As Patrick stated, Canada's involvement in Afghanistan is directly linked to its alliance to the US and NATO. I think the majority of Canadians do obtain some general knowledge of Canada's network of alliances (especially with the US) so I personally don't think asking this question will negatively effect the accuracy of our results.

Something along the lines of these:

Given the importance of the Canadian alliance with the United States, do you agree with Canada’s decision to participate in the war in Afghanistan? Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

OR

Given Canada’s membership in NATO, do you agree with Canada’s decision to participate in the war in Afghanistan? Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

I think questions like this will address the important aspect of alliances in relation to the war in Afghanistan. What do you guys think?