Mapping Corporate Power in Saskatchewan

Abstract

The following study seeks to identify networks of corporate power in the province by documenting the inter-locking relationships between corporations, industry and trade associations, advocacy groups, policy institutes, universities, political parties and government itself. We draw upon the traditions of sociological power structure research that emphasize the social networks in which these enterprises are embedded and the importance of viewing these networks as “arenas of power” (Scott, 1991, 182). The study of corporate interlocks is at the centre of this form of research. An interlock exists when a particular individual sits on two or more corporate boards, with multiple interlocks between corporations revealing a level of dense corporate elite integration. Equally important to our research are the interlocks that exist between corporations and the governing boards of other corporate-sponsored or corporate-interest organizations and/or institutions, such as policy planning groups, inter-sectoral organizations, trade or industry associations, government advisory boards or other corporate interest advocacy groups.