What is Federalism?

Answer 1

Federalism is a political philosophy in which a group or body of members are bound together (Latin: foedus, covenant) with a governing representative head.

Federalism underlies a system of government in which sovereignty is constitutionally divided between a central governing authority and constituent political units (like states or provinces), creating what is often called a federation. Proponents are often called federalists. In Canada and Europe, "federalist" is often used to describe those who favor a stronger federal government (or European Union government) and weaker provincial governments. The same is historically true in the United States, with those who generally favor a confederation, or weaker federal government and stronger state governments, being called "anti-federalists". However, in recent years in America "federalism" has come to mean something closer to confederacy.

Answer 2

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federalism)
Federalism is a political philosophy in which a group or body of members are bound together (Latin: foedus, covenant) with a governing representative head.

Federalism underlies a system of government in which sovereignty is constitutionally divided between a central governing authority and constituent political units (like states or provinces), creating what is often called a federation. Proponents are often called federalists. In Canada and Europe, "federalist" is often used to describe those who favor a stronger federal government (or European Union government) and weaker provincial governments. The same is historically true in the United States, with those who generally favor a confederation, or weaker federal government and stronger state governments, being called "anti-federalists". However, in recent years in America "federalism" has come to mean something closer to confederacy.

Federalism as a political philosophy

Main articles: Federalism and Federalist

The meaning of federalism, as a political movement, and of what constitutes a 'federalist', varies with country and historical context. Movements associated with the establishment or development of federations can be either centralising or decentralising. For example, at the time those nations were being established, 'federalists' in the United States and Australia were those who advocated the creation of strong central government. Similarly, in European Union politics, federalists are mostly those who seek greater EU integration. In contrast, in Spain and post-war Germany, federal movements have sought decentralisation: the transfer of power from central authorities to local units. In Canada, where Quebec separatism has been a political force for several decades, the 'federalist' force is dedicated to keeping the federation intact and adapting the federal structure to better suit Quebec interests.

Answer 3

The Bush administration.

Darryl S.

Answer 4

http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/federalism/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federalism
http://www.answers.com/topic/federalism
http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_fedr.html

Answer 5

I've no idea.