Some are enshrined in law but I should imagine just as many are simply found in the hearts of ordinary Canadians.
So far, ordinary Canadians have not shown much concern over their dollar's fall.
And yet today, inside the 19th century neo-Gothic church, family, friends, political allies and foes, as well as ordinary Canadians, gathered for a final farewell.
It is however important to note that averaging the tax burden of high and low income earners does not accurately reflect the burden carried by ordinary Canadians.
Harper has said that he believes that the issue is a "niche topic", and that "ordinary Canadians" are not particularly concerned with the issue.
Harper explained that ordinary Canadians cannot relate to "rich galas" where artists complain about their subsidies.
Unexpected emotional support has come from ordinary Canadians; strangers frequently come up to Mr. Arar on the street and shake his hand.
He consciously set out to assume a more active role, and to get to know ordinary Canadians as much as possible.
But today, many analysts and ordinary Canadians said in interviews around the country, the differences appear to have moved center stage, particularly in social and cultural values.
AMID the flurry of statistics, ordinary Canadians have become confused.