He is one of Canada's authorities in the field of political science. As a professor at the University of British Columbia, many of his scholarly writings and essays are distinguished not only by the strikingly original viewpoint he brings to them, but also by the profound influence they have had in changing and shaping modern Canadian politics. Highly respected by his colleagues and peers, he is considered a knowledgeable and valued advisor on federal-provincial relations, has served on numerous Royal Commissions and is in constant demand as a lecturer at many universities across the country.