GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
A state legislature is considering a new law that would establish a statewide curriculum for all public schools, dictating specific textbooks and teaching methods. Opponents argue that education is traditionally a matter for local control and individual states. This debate most directly relates to which principle of American government?
- AChecks and balances
- BSeparation of powers
- CPopular sovereignty
- DFederalism
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Federalism
The debate over who controls education (state vs. local or federal vs. state) is a classic example of federalism, which divides power between national and state governments.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Checks and balances are mechanisms by which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others.
- B. Separation of powers divides governmental authority among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
- C. Popular sovereignty refers to the idea that the government's power comes from the consent of the governed.
Federalism
A system of government in which power is divided by a constitution between a central (federal) government and regional (state) governments.
- Ensures a balance of power, preventing concentration in one level of government.
- Allows states to create laws specific to their unique needs and populations.
- Can lead to disputes over which level of government has authority over certain issues.
Memory trick: Federalism is like 'Fed' and 'Local' sharing power.