Explaining Federalism

This insightful book, Explaining Federalism, examines the evolution of federal political institutions through five case studies, highlighting their adaptation to social structures.

The book Explaining Federalism explores both theoretical and empirical questions surrounding federalism, using five detailed case studies from Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, and Switzerland. By examining these diverse contexts, the author sheds light on how federal political institutions evolve over time in response to the underlying social structures. This evolution can take two forms: a centralist shift reflecting ethno-linguistic homogeneity or a decentralist movement that aligns with ethno-linguistic diversity.

A central argument presented in Explaining Federalism is that the political institutions of federalism are not static; they adapt to achieve congruence with the social realities they govern. The book fills a significant gap in the comparative federalism literature by providing an in-depth empirical examination of these five federal systems within a unified analytical framework. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the patterns of change and continuity in these established democracies.

Furthermore, the volume critiques new-institutionalist perspectives on institutional change, emphasizing the value of society-based approaches in analyzing shifts in comparative politics. It offers a fresh lens for students and scholars interested in federalism, comparative government, and public policy. Explaining Federalism is an essential resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of how federal systems operate and adapt in the face of social dynamics.