Federalism

[Heyo]

Federalism - Wikipedia

So much for the definition and general idea. But what does that mean in praxis?

Do you live in federal country? Does federalism work there?

What do you think should be federal matters and what should be left to the states?

 

[Stevicus]

Federalism - Wikipedia

So much for the definition and general idea. But what does that mean in praxis?

Do you live in federal country? Does federalism work there?

What do you think should be federal matters and what should be left to the states?

I live in a federal country, obviously. Everyone can see how it's been working. Sometimes it's worked well, adn sometimes not so well.

In practice, there can sometimes be bureaucratic entanglements and passing the buck. Lazy federal officials can say "that's a job for the states," while lazy state officials can say "that's a job for the federal government."

There should be a more coherent division of responsibility between the central government, state governments, and county/municipal governments.

 

[Augustus]

In general I think federalism is a great idea.

In theory, it allows a high level of decentralisation of power so nations don't have to opt for one-size-fits-all policies, but is better for defence and international relations that many small independent states would be.