Federalism: Advantages and Disadvantages

As with any other government system, there are advantages and disadvantages of federalism.  These advantages are summarized below.  For a more detailed discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of U.S. federalism, see American Government, Ch. 3.5.

Advantages

1. Promotes policy innovation
2. Promotes political participation (including allowing for venue shopping)
3. Accommodates a diversity of opinions/viewpoints

Disadvantages

1. Low visibility and lack of popular control
2. Spillover effects and competition (economic disparities between states; race-to-the-bottom dynamics)
3. Difficulty taking action on issues of national importance