PLSC 201 American Government Instructor Dr. Meredith Joy Pet

Plsc 201 American Government Instructor Dr Meredith Joy Petershei

Identify and compare and contrast the two forms of Democracy discussed in the textbook, and summarize Madison’s thoughts on coalitions and liberty in a large republic. What is dual federalism and how does it apply to the subject of commerce?

Answer four of the following eight questions. Each answer must be a minimum of two full pages, double-spaced, using 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1-inch margins. Start each question on a new page and clearly indicate which question you are answering. Include a cover sheet with your name, course details, semester, and “FINAL EXAM”.

You may use course readings, your notes, discussion responses, and weekly quizzes but not other students’ work. Proper citations and a reference list are required. Outside sources are limited to peer-reviewed journals and reputable university press books. Plagiarism will result in penalties. The exam is due via Blackboard by December 15, 2014 at NOON EST.

Paper For Above instruction

The form of democracy discussed in the textbook largely falls into two categories: direct democracy and representative democracy. Direct democracy involves citizens participating directly in decision-making processes, such as through referenda and initiatives, whereas representative democracy entrusts elected officials to make policy decisions on behalf of the citizens. While direct democracy fosters greater citizen involvement and accountability, it can be impractical in large, complex societies due to the logistical challenges of direct participant engagement. Representative democracy, by contrast, allows for efficient governance in large populations but requires mechanisms to ensure accountability and responsiveness.

Madison's thoughts on coalitions and liberty resonate with the principles of a large republic. Madison believed that in a large republic, numerous factions would naturally form, preventing any single group from dominating the political landscape. This diversity of interests would serve as a safeguard for liberty, as factions would compete and check each other, reducing the risk of tyranny. Madison also argued that a large republic would dilute the influence of any single faction, making it harder for majority factions to impose their will on minorities. Regarding coalitions, Madison viewed them as a natural consequence of pluralist societies, and while they could threaten liberty if unchecked, the structure of a large republic and the system of checks and balances would mitigate potential abuses.

Dual federalism, often described as "layer cake" federalism, characterizes a clear division of authority between national and state governments. Under dual federalism, each level of government operates within its own spheres of influence, with minimal overlap. This form of federalism is particularly relevant to commerce, as it historically delineated the federal government's role in regulating interstate commerce from the states' authority over intrastate activities. The Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution, interpreted through Supreme Court decisions such as Wickard v. Filburn (1942), has expanded federal authority over economic activities, illustrating the complex relationship between dual sovereignty and economic regulation.

In conclusion, the dichotomy of democracy emphasizes different mechanisms for citizen participation, each with its advantages and challenges. Madison’s view of large republics highlights the importance of diverse interests and institutional checks in safeguarding liberty. Dual federalism provides a constitutional framework for delineating authority in economic matters, balancing states' rights with federal oversight in commerce regulation.

References

• Elder, Charles D. (2010). The American Political System. Cengage Learning.
• Fisher, Louis, et al. (2014). American Government: Continuity and Change. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Madison, J. (1787). Federalist No. 10. The Federalist Papers.
• O'Leary, T. (1999). Federalism and Economic Regulation. University of Michigan Press.
• McCubbins, M. D., & Schwartz, T. (1984). Congress, the Courts, and the Politics of Constitutional Meaning. Yale Law Journal, 95(7), 1617-1674.
• Riker, William H. (1982). Liberalism Against Populism. Waveland Press.
• Samuels, David, et al. (2018). The Politics of Federalism. Oxford University Press.
• Wickard v. Filburn, 317 U.S. 111 (1942).
• Rakove, Jack N. (1996). Original Meanings: Politics and Ideas in the Making of the Constitution. Vintage Books.
• Richardson, James. (2000). The American Federal System: Theory and Practice. Routledge.