Specify the key features of each of the three major types of political systems that are distinguished by the areal distribution of power. What are the best reasons to select each type, based on characteristics of countries that you identify?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The ideal answer should include:
1. In a unitary state, a central government holds all legitimate power. The central government has indivisible sovereignty, although it usually delegates some power to regional units, such as provinces, departments, or counties. Unitary systems provide clear and hierarchical authority. They make it easier for the states to control the territory and reduce regionalism.
2. A federation has a constitutional division of power and functions between a central government and the set of regional governments. A federation requires a complex balancing of the power between the central government and the regional governments. Federations are especially appropriate in large and diverse states.
3. A confederation is an association in which states delegate some power to a supranational central government but retain primary power. Confederations facilitate cooperation, while retaining subunits. Although confederations can serve many useful functions for member states, their activities and even their very survival are always contingent on the members' continuing support.