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Questions and Answers
What is a key characteristic of a federal system of government?
What is a key characteristic of a federal system of government?
What is one advantage of a federal system of government?
What is one advantage of a federal system of government?
What is a potential disadvantage of a federal system of government?
What is a potential disadvantage of a federal system of government?
Which of the following countries is an example of a federal system of government?
Which of the following countries is an example of a federal system of government?
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What is the term for the concept where both the central government and smaller units of government have sovereignty and authority over specific areas?
What is the term for the concept where both the central government and smaller units of government have sovereignty and authority over specific areas?
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What is a potential result of the division of power in a federal system of government?
What is a potential result of the division of power in a federal system of government?
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What is one of the key benefits of the system of checks and balances in a federal system of government?
What is one of the key benefits of the system of checks and balances in a federal system of government?
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a federal system of government?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a federal system of government?
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Study Notes
Definition of Federalism
- A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller regional or local authorities.
- A compromise between a unitary system (where power is concentrated at the center) and a confederal system (where power is decentralized).
Key Characteristics of Federalism
- Division of Power: Power is divided between the central government and smaller units of government, such as states or provinces.
- Dual Sovereignty: Both the central government and smaller units of government have sovereignty and authority over specific areas.
- Shared Responsibility: The central government and smaller units of government share responsibility for governing the country.
Advantages of Federalism
- Promotes Regional Autonomy: Allows smaller units of government to make decisions that are tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
- Encourages Diversity: Allows for diversity in laws, policies, and cultural practices across different regions.
- Provides Checks and Balances: The division of power between the central government and smaller units of government provides a system of checks and balances to prevent abuse of power.
Disadvantages of Federalism
- Can Lead to Inefficiency: The division of power can lead to inefficiencies and duplication of efforts.
- Can Create Conflicts: The division of power can lead to conflicts between the central government and smaller units of government.
- Can Result in Inequities: The division of power can result in inequities in the distribution of resources and services across different regions.
Examples of Federal Systems
- United States: A federal system with a central government and 50 states.
- Canada: A federal system with a central government and 10 provinces.
- Germany: A federal system with a central government and 16 states.
- Australia: A federal system with a central government and 6 states.
Theories of Federalism
- Dual Federalism: The idea that the central government and smaller units of government have separate and distinct spheres of authority.
- Cooperative Federalism: The idea that the central government and smaller units of government work together to achieve common goals.
- Marble Cake Federalism: The idea that the central government and smaller units of government have overlapping and interdependent spheres of authority.
Definition of Federalism
- A system where power is divided between a central authority and smaller regional or local authorities, providing a balance between unity and decentralization.
Key Characteristics of Federalism
- Division of Power: Central government and smaller units of government have distinct areas of authority.
- Dual Sovereignty: Both central government and smaller units of government have sovereignty and authority over specific areas.
- Shared Responsibility: Central government and smaller units of government share responsibility for governing the country.
Advantages of Federalism
- Regional Autonomy: Allows smaller units of government to make decisions tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
- Encourages Diversity: Allows for diversity in laws, policies, and cultural practices across different regions.
- Checks and Balances: Division of power provides a system of checks and balances to prevent abuse of power.
Disadvantages of Federalism
- Inefficiency: Division of power can lead to inefficiencies and duplication of efforts.
- Conflicts: Division of power can lead to conflicts between central government and smaller units of government.
- Inequities: Division of power can result in inequities in the distribution of resources and services across different regions.
Examples of Federal Systems
- United States: Central government and 50 states.
- Canada: Central government and 10 provinces.
- Germany: Central government and 16 states.
- Australia: Central government and 6 states.
Theories of Federalism
- Dual Federalism: Central government and smaller units of government have separate and distinct spheres of authority.
- Cooperative Federalism: Central government and smaller units of government work together to achieve common goals.
- Marble Cake Federalism: Central government and smaller units of government have overlapping and interdependent spheres of authority.
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Description
Learn about the system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller regional or local authorities, including its characteristics and types.
