The idea that states are 'laboratories of democracy' means
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the interpretation of the phrase 'laboratories of democracy' in relation to state governments and their functions in governance. It seeks to understand how states can experiment with laws and policies that may later influence federal legislation.
Answer
State governments try new laws and policies that if proven effective, work their way to other states and the federal government.
The final answer is: State governments try new laws and policies that if proven effective, work their way to other states and the federal government.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is: State governments try new laws and policies that if proven effective, work their way to other states and the federal government.
More Information
The idea highlights the role of states in experimenting with policies at a smaller scale before they are potentially adopted at a national level.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking the national government initiates these experiments, rather than the states themselves.
Sources
- Laboratories of Democracy | American Enterprise Institute - AEI - aei.org
- States are the laboratories of democracy - The Hill - thehill.com
- Laboratories of Democracy - (AP US Government) - Fiveable - library.fiveable.me
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