Federalism: The System Of Federalism Was Instituted With The ✓ Solved

Federalism The system of federalism was instituted with the

The system of federalism was instituted with the writing and authorization of the Constitution in 1787. In dividing power between states and the national government, federalism has undergone challenges to the placement of power. Should power reside primarily in national or in state government? The Civil War was the most dramatic challenge to the placement of power. Southern states argued, under the leadership of John C. Calhoun, that states’ power superseded national power, while northern states, under the leadership of President Abraham Lincoln, stressed the need for union under the leadership and direction of the national government.

In the more than two hundred years since the Constitution’s adoption, there have been many changes to the meaning of federalism, with power shifting between state and national governments. In the twentieth century, the shifts of power became largely associated with the national government’s ability to provide increased funding sources. With more funding available, the national government has expanded its impact on all areas of state governments. This increased power has had many advocates and many detractors, each with strong justifications.

Research federalism using your textbook, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet. Write a paper on federalism. Structure your paper as follows: Define federalism. Explain three advantages of federalism. Explain three disadvantages of federalism. Identify and describe at least two ways in which American federalism has changed since the ratification of the Constitution. Discuss one advantage or disadvantage of federalism most relevant to you. Describe the relationship between contemporary politics and trends in the size and power of the federal government.

Write a 2–3-page paper in Word format. Apply APA standards for writing style to your work.

Paper For Above Instructions

Federalism is a system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units, typically states. This structure allows for a division of responsibilities and powers, enabling each level of government to operate independently while being interdependent. Understanding the complexities of federalism requires analyzing both its advantages and disadvantages, as well as its evolution over time in the United States.

Defining Federalism

Federalism in the United States is rooted in the Constitution, which outlines the distribution of powers between the national and state governments. It establishes a framework of government that allows states to exercise authority over their internal affairs while also obligating them to adhere to the national laws dictated by Congress. This schema was designed to prevent tyranny from a central government and to ensure that local entities had a say in governance.

Advantages of Federalism

One compelling advantage of federalism is the promotion of diversity in governance. Different states can implement policies that reflect their unique populations and cultures, allowing for a variety of approaches to local governance. This adaptability can lead to innovative solutions tailored to specific regional issues (Elazar, 1987).

Secondly, federalism enhances democratic participation. Political power is more localized, allowing citizens to engage more directly with their government and have a say in local decision-making processes. This localized political activity can foster higher levels of civic engagement and voter turnout (Rosenbloom, 2009).

Finally, federalism encourages a system of checks and balances. By distributing power across multiple levels, federalism can prevent the concentration of power in a single entity, therefore reducing the risk of authoritarianism and promoting accountability among government officials (Miller, 2013).

Disadvantages of Federalism

Conversely, one significant disadvantage of federalism is the potential for inconsistencies in laws and policies across states. This disparity can create confusion for citizens and businesses traveling or operating across state lines, as different states may have entirely different regulations (Kincaid, 1990).

Another downside is the risk of a lack of coordination in policy implementation. As multiple layers of government operate independently, it can lead to inefficient service delivery and duplication of efforts in areas like education, health care, and infrastructure (Haskin, 2016).

Moreover, federalism can pose challenges in addressing national issues that require unified action, such as climate change or economic crises. States may have conflicting interests, making it difficult to implement cohesive national strategies (Harrison, 2006).

Changes in American Federalism Since the Constitution

Since the ratification of the Constitution, American federalism has undergone notable transformations. One significant change occurred during the New Deal era, where the federal government expanded its role in the economy and provided various social safety nets in response to the Great Depression. This shift reflected a growing acknowledgment of the need for a stronger central authority to address national challenges (Skowronek, 1982).

Another critical change has been the evolving nature of federal funding. Over the last century, federal grants-in-aid programs emerged as a way for the national government to influence state policies and programs. This funding mechanism has allowed the federal government to assert its power in areas like education, health, and infrastructure, often leading to a more significant federal presence in state affairs (Olsen, 1993).

Personal Perspective on Federalism

From a personal standpoint, the advantage of localized governance resonates most strongly with me. The ability for states to create policies that reflect their specific needs fosters a sense of community and civic responsibility. For example, states can enact progressive social policies that align with the values of their residents, which may not be possible under a uniform national policy. This ability to govern locally ensures that diverse perspectives and needs are considered in policymaking (Harrison, 2006).

Contemporary Politics and Federal Government Power

In contemporary politics, the discussion surrounding the size and power of the federal government is highly relevant. The ongoing political debate often centers on the appropriate balance between state and federal authority, especially concerning issues such as health care, environmental regulation, and social issues. Recent trends indicate a growing federal influence, particularly in response to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where swift national coordination was deemed necessary. This trend raises questions about the future implications for state autonomy and governance under federalism (Miller, 2013).

In conclusion, federalism in the United States presents a complex interplay of advantages and disadvantages. While it fosters diversity, democratic participation, and checks and balances, it also introduces challenges such as potential inconsistencies and inefficiencies. Understanding the evolution of federalism since the Constitution is essential to grasping its current dynamics within contemporary politics.

References

• Elazar, D. J. (1987). Exploring Federalism. University of Alabama Press.
• Harrison, B. (2006). Federalism: A New Framework for Human Rights. Human Rights Review.
• Haskin, J. (2016). State and Local Government: An Introduction. Pearson.
• Kincaid, J. (1990). Federalism and the American Political System. University of Alabama Press.
• Miller, B. (2013). The American Federal System. Wadsworth.
• Olsen, E. (1993). The Politics of Federalism. Westview Press.
• Rosenbloom, D. H. (2009). Federalism and the Executive. Public Administration Review.
• Skowronek, S. (1982). Building a New American State. Cambridge University Press.