What principle underlies the theory of federalism?

The principle that underlies the theory of federalism is the division of power between different levels of government. Federalism is a system of governance in which power is constitutionally divided between a central authority and various political units, such as states or provinces. This structure allows for both levels of government to operate independently within their respective spheres of authority, which can lead to a more effective and adaptable governance system that acknowledges the diverse needs of different regions.

In a federal system, certain powers are reserved for the national government, such as defense and foreign policy, while others are left to state or local governments, such as education and transportation. This division not only helps to prevent the concentration of power in a single entity but also encourages a closer relationship between government and citizens, as local governments may be more responsive to regional issues and needs.

The other options are not aligned with the foundational concept of federalism. Centralized power refers to a governance structure where the central authority holds most of the power, which contradicts the decentralized aspect of federalism. Monarchial governance does not apply to federalism since it involves a singular monarch exerting control rather than a division of powers among levels of government. The supremacy of state law disregards the idea of federal authority being supreme