Who should have more power?

Hi friends!

We were discussing this in my AP US. Government and Politics class and i wanted to know what you all thought.

Ever since the beginning of the formation of US government, our founding fathers have debated over the distribution of power between the states and the federal government. Some say that each state is different and has different needs so the state gov't should have more say over what happens in that state. Also, it is easier to manage a smaller group than an entire nation. However, others say that a strong central government is essential to unite the different states and ensure that laws are the same for all states and that each state has someone to answer to.

I know many of you are not from the US, dont let that discourage you from participating. born, raised and schooled here, i am most familir with the american political/governmental structure. However, this question of division of power between the states and the federal government can apply to almost any country. Especially India, where there is such diversity among the states.

Who should have more power, the individual states or the central federal government? To what extent should they govern? what specific aspects should each control?

Originally posted by: ~LiL*PrInCeZ~

Hi friends!

We were discussing this in my AP US. Government and Politics class and i wanted to know what you all thought.

Ever since the beginning of the formation of US government, our founding fathers have debated over the distribution of power between the states and the federal government. Some say that each state is different and has different needs so the state gov't should have more say over what happens in that state. Also, it is easier to manage a smaller group than an entire nation. However, others say that a strong central government is essential to unite the different states and ensure that laws are the same for all states and that each state has someone to answer to.

I know many of you are not from the US, dont let that discourage you from participating. born, raised and schooled here, i am most familir with the american political/governmental structure. However, this question of division of power between the states and the federal government can apply to almost any country. Especially India, where there is such diversity among the states.

Who should have more power, the individual states or the central federal government? To what extent should they govern? what specific aspects should each control?

I think some things should be centralized and some decentralized... giving power to states means expecting them to be smart.. Since the available options for smartness are limited.. you would find severe disparities bet; good and bad state... Also they dont have good reason for taxation and hence its possible you get taxed more in republican setup than democratic..

Except for some culture and morality, republican setup may not have too many advantages..

Who should have more power, the individual states or the central federal government? To what extent should they govern? what specific aspects should each control?

Ultimate power should be given to Central thier focus is to ensure overall goals as a Nation is met.

Sub goals for each state is defined by Central Government, how best states can acheive it depending on natural resources, public interest of that state, cultural aspects etc in best interest of individuals residing in that state, depends on them. There are layers of governance at each level based on limitations and public interest of citizens that should be met.

They should govern at the level of when commonly decided goals are met. Specific aspect they govern should be based again on public interest. If people living in particular nation are not happy then state should ensue happiness while considering or meeting Central goals.

Micro management by central government to achieve the goals is NOT advisable.