GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
During a period of economic recession, the federal government passes legislation to provide financial assistance directly to states for infrastructure projects. This approach demonstrates which aspect of the U.S. federal system?
- AConfederal System
- BDual Federalism
- CCooperative Federalism
- DUnitary System
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Cooperative Federalism
Cooperative federalism describes a system where national, state, and local governments work together to solve common problems, often with the federal government providing funding and guidelines to the states.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A confederal system gives primary power to sub-national entities, with a weak central government, which is not the U.S. model.
- B. Dual federalism views state and national governments as distinct entities with separate spheres of authority, which is not what is described by shared projects.
- D. A unitary system centralizes all governmental power in a single national government, unlike the U.S. federal system.
Cooperative Federalism
A concept of federalism in which national, state, and local governments work together to solve common problems, often with shared funding and administrative responsibilities.
- Characterized by shared responsibilities and collaboration.
- Often involves federal grants-in-aid to states for specific programs.
- Contrasts with dual federalism's 'layer cake' model.
Memory trick: CO-OP is when everyone COOPERATES to build.