What is federalism?

Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and political units, such as states or provinces. This division allows for multiple levels of government to coexist, with each level having its own responsibilities and powers. For example, in the United States, the federal government handles national issues while state governments manage local affairs. This structure promotes a balance of power and can help prevent any one entity from becoming too powerful, as both the central authority and the political units have their own distinct areas of governance.

This division of power is fundamental to federalism, as it encourages political participation at different levels and can cater to a diversity of needs within the country. By contrast, a centralized system concentrates power in a single national authority, limiting the autonomy of local governments. Thus, the essence of federalism lies in the sharing of power, which is what makes the correct answer particularly significant in the study of government systems.