Compare the following styles of democratic government: federal, confederal, and unitary. Describe where they derive their power, and where the power is located in each of the three styles
Federal Government:
A federal government is one in which power is divided between a central authority and regional or state governments. In this system, the central government possesses significant authority in some areas, while regional or state governments retain authority in others. The power is derived from the constitution and is typically distributed through a system of checks and balances, where the central authority and regional governments have separate spheres of influence and control. The power is located in both the central government and the regional or state governments, with each level having its own distinct areas of jurisdiction.
Confederal Government:
A confederal government is characterized by a loose alliance of independent states or regions, where the central authority is relatively weak and derives its power from the consent of the member states. In this system, the member states retain sovereignty and have the power to make decisions collectively while maintaining their independent authority. The central government's power is limited, and its jurisdiction is restricted to areas that have been explicitly delegated by the member states. The power is primarily located in the member states, with the central authority acting as a coordinator or facilitator between the independent entities.
Unitary Government:
A unitary government is one in which power is centralized in a single, national government, and local or regional governments derive their authority and powers from the central government. In this system, the central government possesses ultimate decision-making authority and can enforce its policies uniformly across the entire country. The power is derived from the constitution or legislation, and it resides primarily in the central government, which retains the ability to delegate certain powers or responsibilities to lower-level governments if desired.
In summary, the key distinctions between these three styles of democratic government are based on the division and allocation of power. A federal government distributes power between a central authority and regional governments, confederal government gives more autonomy and power to the member states or regions, and a unitary government concentrates power at the national level with authority derived from the central government.