Description
This timely Advanced Introduction explores federalism as a subject of intellectual inquiry, discussion and debate. Alain-G. Gagnon and Arjun Tremblay examine the role federalism plays in achieving fairness, justice and equality, as well as the impact it can have on the survival of political systems. Ultimately, they argue that the constitutional division of powers between levels of government remains a significant institutional blueprint for the present and future of democratic societies.
Key Features:
- Recent and emerging trends in federalism scholarship
- Illustrates the complex, evolving and distinctly political nature of federalism
- Explores federalism in the context of postcolonial and settler colonial states
- The impact of cutting-edge issues including COVID-19, populism and democratic backsliding on federalism
Providing an accessible survey of the key concerns and questions surrounding federalism studies, this Advanced Introduction will be vital reading for students and scholars of political science, international studies and international affairs. It will also be an important guide for policy-makers seeking insight into the effectiveness of federal responses to political challenges.
About the Author
Alain-G. Gagnon, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Quebec and Canadian Studies, Departement de science politique, Universite du Quebec a Montreal and Arjun Tremblay, Associate Professor, Department of Politics and International Studies, University of Regina, Canada
Reviews
'All in all, Advanced Introduction to Federalism provides very useful context for a number of highly relevant issues, such as immigration and democratic backsliding, that can serve as a guide for future research. One element clearly emerges, and that is the broad scope of modern federalism scholarship. There is plenty to do, and this book provides a good place for scholars to launch their work and non-scholars to understand why federalism is relevant and even pivotal in today's world.' -- Carol S. Weissert, Publius: The Journal of Federalism
'The conceptual clarity, comparative approach, and analytical depth make Advanced Introduction to Federalism an essential read for scholars, students, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding how federal structures can contribute to more just, inclusive, and effective governance. Gagnon and Arjun's book not only illuminates the past and present of federalism but also provides valuable insights for its future. It is an outstanding contribution that will surely guide the study of federalism in addressing the challenges of governance in an increasingly complex and diverse world.' -- Karel J. Leyva, Politics and Rights Review
'This fascinating and highly insightful book offers a unique and illuminating approach to comparative federalism by introducing readers to critical contemporary debates and issues of federalism, including democratic backsliding, populism, post-colonial and settler-colonial federations, religion, immigration, multinational democracy, gender, local government, and pandemics. The book provides solid foundations for students and advanced scholars to pursue further research and enrich their teaching about federalism.' -- John Kincaid, Lafayette College, US
'The longevous principle of federalism remains a stronghold of institutional, democratic and societal stability, more so in times of uncertainties. The authors masterfully investigate how the main contemporary challenges are analyzed in federal scholarship and how policies can be influenced - or even rescued - by federalism.' -- Francesco Palermo, University of Verona and Eurac Research, Italy
Book Information
ISBN 9781800374133
Author Alain -G. Gagnon
Format Paperback
Page Count 166
Imprint Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
Publisher Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
