Question

This excerpt explains the system of federalism.
In a single republic, all the power surrendered by the people is submitted to the administration of a single government. ... In the [government separated into states] of America, the power surrendered by the people is first divided between two distinct governments, and then the portion allotted to each, subdivided among . .
• separate departments. Hence a double security arises to the rights of the people. The different governments will control each other, at the same time that each will be controlled by itself.
-James Madison, Federalist, no. 51, 1788
Based on the excerpt why did James Madison believe that federalism is needed in government?
(1 point)
• it provides government with a way to support the powers of the military.
• it limits governmental authority in order to avoid abuse of power.
• it allows the government to make decision more efficiently.
• it prevents conflict over controversial governmental policies

Answer 1

James Madison believed that federalism is needed in government because **it limits governmental authority in order to avoid abuse of power.** This is evident in the excerpt where he discusses how the division of power between different levels and branches of government creates a system of checks and balances, ensuring that no single entity has too much control.