Federalism, Confederation and Political Ideology
1. Explain the reasons why federalism was chosen instead of
either confederation or a unitary system in 1787.
2. How does federalism keep government closer to the people?
Is state government necessarily more responsive to the people than the federal
government?
3. Distinguish between inherent, implied, and express
powers. Give an example of each.
4. Will interstate compacts become more important with the
development of new technologies? Give examples to support your answer.
5. What values are shared by most Americans?
6. Distinguish between “liberal” and
“conservative”. How useful are these labels in today’s political
discourse?
7. How have various developments in American history
modified the political ideology of Americans?
8. How are basic beliefs in both freedom and equality
represented in American policies today? Give examples of policies where you
think that these values are compatible and where you think that they may be
incompatible?
9. Is American diversity becoming increasingly that of
reinforcing cleavages rather than cross-cutting cleavages?
10. Research the last two presidential elections and look
for evidences of candidates appealing to particular gender issues. What are
these issues and how did candidates appeal to them?
11. Compared with many other countries, America is a
relatively very diverse country. Why haven’t American problems with diversity
been as difficult as those encountered by Canada, India, or the former
Yugoslavia?
12. What are the special concerns of older Americans? How
are these reflected in political participation?
