What is federalism?

Federalism is best understood as a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent units, such as states or provinces. This structure allows for a balance of power, ensuring that different levels of government can operate independently while also working collaboratively on matters of national significance.

In a federal system, each level of government has the authority to legislate and govern within its sphere of influence, which can contribute to a more diverse and localized approach to governance. This division of powers can enhance citizen participation and responsiveness to community needs, as local governments can address regional issues effectively.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of federalism. A description focusing on power being concentrated in a central government describes a more unitary system, while the characterization of federalism as promoting totalitarianism is misleading and does not relate to the foundational principles of federal governance. Similarly, a system favoring direct democracy does not align with federalism, which operates within a representative framework where elected officials make decisions on behalf of constituents.