Volts

Andrew is comparing CPP to other defined benefit pension plans.  With my wife's for example, she will get a choice of no survivor benefit, 'guaranteed 10 year' (if she dies surviving spouse gets pension for up to 10 years) and 'joint life' where the pension exists until the last surviving spouse passes.  

The benefit gets smaller depending on the choice. 

If there is no survivor benefit possible because there is no spouse or children you should get a higher benefit.