The Problem in Defining Federalism
by Although, the federal system seems to be widely employed, arguably there are considerable difficulties that might prevent the achievement of one precise definition.
On the other hand, Filippov, M., Ordeshook, P. & Shvetsova, O. (2004) Designing Federalism A theory of Self – Sustainable Federal Institution, adopted the following definition: it is a governmental body in which two levels of governments can practice their sovereignty within their own domain in the sphere of the union.
In conclusion, it appears to be so hard to present all conceptual difficulties and approaches in one short essay. However, there is no satisfactory definition of federalism perhaps. That is due to many reasons firstly there are a vast range of federal models for example, U.S, Switzerland, Belgium and Canada. Each one has it is own circumstances and features. Secondly each experience has different social and political background which might contribute basically in creating the differences of each federal model. Thirdly it could be argued that, the rich debate which has been made by scholars about the federal concept participate in creating this situation.
Although, we are not seem to arrive at a satisfactory definition of federalism, Watt’s concept appears catch my attention, because it can be considered as one of the most applicable definitions on the different forms of federation. That is to say, the normative term might be the best approach in the case of diverse models.
Bibliography
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Burgess, M. (2006) Comparative Federalism Theory and Practice, Oxon, Routledge
Elazar, D. ed. (1991) Federal systems of the World: A handbook of Federal, Confederal and Autonomy Arrangements. Essex, Longman Group.
Friedrich, C. (1968) Trends of Federalism in Theory and Practice, London, Pall Mall Press
Filippov, M., Ordeshook, P. & Shvetsova, O. (2004) Designing Federalism A theory of Self – Sustainable Federal Institution, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press
Karmis, D. and Norman, W. Ed, (2005) Theories of Federalism, New York, Palgrave Macmillan
King, P. (1982) Federalism and Federation, London, Croom Helm Ltd
Smith, G. Ed, (1995) Federalism: The Multiethnic Challenge, Essex, Long Man Group.
Watts, R. (2008) Comparing Federal Systems. London, McGill – Queen’s University Press.
Wheare, K. (1963) Federal Government. London, Oxford University Press.
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