Module 3: Federalism

Federalism

A system where power is constitutionally divided between a central national government and regional state governments.

Enumerated/Expressed Powers

Powers specifically listed in the Constitution as belonging to the federal government (e.g., coining money, declaring war).

Reserved Powers

Powers kept by state governments or the people because they aren't explicitly given to the federal government (10th Amendment).

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared at the same time by both federal and state governments (e.g., collecting taxes, making laws).

Dual Federalism(“Layer Cake”)

An older model where federal and state governments operated in completely separate, distinct areas of responsibility.

Cooperative Federalism (“Marble cake”)

The modern model where federal and state governments work together, share costs, and blur lines of responsibility.

Devolution:

The process of returning authority and program management from the federal government back to state and local governments.

Faction

A group of citizens united by a shared passion or economic interest that runs counter to the rights of others or the general public good.

Tyranny of the minority

A situation where political rules allow a numerical minority to block policies supported by most people.

Tyranny of the Majority:

When a dominant majority group uses voting power to strip away the rights of a minority group.

Federalist No. 10:

An essay by James Madison arguing that a large republic and federal structure best control the dangers of factions.