Final answer:
Proponents of a national government argue for a centralized authority capable of defense, taxation, trade regulation, infrastructure creation, and maintaining international relations, addressing weaknesses of the Confederation government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The arguments given in favor of a national government, as opposed to a federal government, primarily emphasize a strong, centralized authority necessary for the survival and efficient functioning of a nation. Proponents of a national government argued that such a government could effectively maintain defense capabilities, have the power to tax and regulate trade, create the infrastructure necessary for commerce, and maintain foreign relations. Additionally, powerful nationalists like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison advocated for a national government with legislative representation based on population to ensure that states with larger populations would not be underrepresented. The objective was to create a government that could address the weaknesses of the Confederation government, regulate commerce, ensure a stable economy, and protect the nation's interests.