Final answer:
Federalism is a system of shared governance between a national government and subnational units like states, with each having its own set of responsibilities as defined by the Constitution. This allows for a balance of power that caters to both national interests and regional preferences.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Federalism?
Federalism is a system of government where sovereignty is constitutionally divided between a central governing authority and constituent political units (like states or provinces). This means that the authority and power to govern is shared, giving each level its own domain of responsibilities. For example, the federal or national government may handle foreign relations and national defense, while the state governments may oversee education and local law enforcement.
Federal systems stand in contrast to unitary systems, which centralize authority in the national government, and confederations, where subnational entities hold more power. Countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany exemplify modern federalist systems, each with a unique balance of power between their central and regional governments. An essential feature of federalism is that both levels of government derive their authority from the Constitution and that they are directly elected by the people they serve, ensuring a form of shared governance.
While the federal government takes care of overarching national issues, state governments are more focused on regional matters. This division can lead to cooperation and sometimes tension, as responsibilities and powers can overlap. However, the end goal is to accommodate the different needs and preferences of various regions within a single nation.