Unitary and Federal Flashcards
Which system of government has all powers concentrated in a central authority?
Unitary
What is the term for a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional units?
Federal
Which countries are examples of unitary and federal systems of government respectively?
France and USA
What term is used to describe powers specifically reserved for the states in a federal system?
State Powers
What is the main difference between a unitary and a federal system of government?
In a unitary system, all powers are concentrated in a central authority, and regional units function as administrative extensions.
In a federal system, power is constitutionally divided between the central government and regional governments, with each having autonomy in certain areas.
What are the essential features of a federal system of government?
The essential features of a federal system include a written constitution, division of powers, an independent judiciary to interpret the constitution, and financial independence of both levels of government.
How does the Indian system of government reflect both federal and unitary features?
India is a quasi-federal system with a strong centralizing tendency. It has a division of powers between the Centre and States, but during emergencies, the central government can assume unitary powers.
What is meant by ‘residuary powers,’ and who holds them in a federal system?
Residuary powers are those not enumerated in the constitution’s lists of powers. In India, these are vested in the central government, whereas in the U.S., they are with the states.
Why is a written constitution essential for a federal government?
A written constitution is essential to clearly define the powers and responsibilities of the central and regional governments, ensuring that neither level oversteps its authority.
Mention one advantage and one disadvantage of a unitary government.
Advantage: Quick decision-making due to centralized authority.
Disadvantage: Lack of autonomy for regional units can lead to inefficiency in addressing local issues.
What role does the judiciary play in a federal system?
The judiciary interprets the constitution, resolves disputes between the central and regional governments, and ensures that neither exceeds its powers.
What is a federation and where was this word derived from?
A federation is a state either organised when several sovereign states combine to form a single big sovereign state of when a big sovereign state re-organizes themselves. It was derived from the Latin word “Foedus” which means agreement or treaty.
What is the Bi-Cameral Congress of US?
In its lower house i.e. the HOR, the people of US have been given representation. In the upper house i.e. Senate, the states of the federation are represented, two representatives from each of the 50 states are present.
Which constitutional list defines subjects exclusively under the central government’s authority in a federal system?
Union List
What is the term for overlapping powers shared by both central and state governments in a federal structure?
Concurrent Powers
