What principle does federalism represent?

Federalism is characterized by the distribution of power between different levels of government, specifically between the national and state or local governments. This shared authority allows each level to operate independently while also having interrelated responsibilities.

Under a federal system, some powers are reserved for the national government, while others are assigned to state or local governments. This structure promotes a balance where both national and local interests can be addressed. For example, the national government may manage defense and immigration, while states handle education and local law enforcement.

This cooperative arrangement enables flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of diverse populations spread across different regions. By having authority shared among various levels, federalism encourages a more direct form of governance that can be sensitive to local issues and conditions, fostering a system of checks and balances that can help to prevent the concentration of power in a single government entity.