How does the system of federalism affect the way the constitution is structured is it individuals are given more power and rights state and federal powers are shared. Individual rights are guaranteed checks and balances are established.
The system of federalism in the United States affects the way the Constitution is structured in several ways:
1. Distribution of power: Federalism divides power between the national government and the state governments. The Constitution outlines the powers of the federal government in Article I, Section 8, while reserving all other powers to the states through the Tenth Amendment. This division ensures a balance of power between the two levels of government.
2. Guarantee of individual rights: The Constitution, specifically the Bill of Rights (the first ten amendments), guarantees various individual rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process. These rights are protected irrespective of whether power is held by the federal or state governments. The Constitution establishes a framework for the protection of individual liberties throughout the federal system.
3. Shared powers: Federalism implies that certain powers are shared between the national and state governments. For example, both levels of government have the power to tax, establish courts, and make laws. This sharing of powers allows for a cooperative approach where both the federal and state governments can work together on issues of national importance.
4. Checks and balances: The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch or level of government from becoming too powerful. This system ensures that power is spread out among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches at both the federal and state levels. The Constitution also provides for the ability of the federal government to check any encroachment on individual rights by the state governments.
In summary, federalism affects the way the Constitution is structured by ensuring a distribution of power, protecting individual rights, allowing for the sharing of powers between levels of government, and establishing a system of checks and balances.