According to the textbook, federalism is meritorious in that it: Promotes policy innovation and political participation and accommodates diversity of opinion.

• A. Increased Centralization
• B. Centralized Control
• C. Promotes policy innovation and political participation and accommodates diversity of opinion
• D. Reduces political participation

Answer: (C)

Federalism works because it lets different governments at the state level try out policies and respond to local needs. When states serve as laboratories, policy ideas can be tested, refined, and shared across the country, which drives innovation. At the same time, having multiple levels of government creates more chances for people to participate—through local and state elections, public hearings, and community involvement—so citizens aren’t limited to national debates alone. Plus, letting states reflect regional and cultural differences helps accommodate a variety of opinions across the country, rather than forcing a single national solution.

That’s why this statement is the best answer: it captures how federalism promotes policy innovation, expands political participation, and respects diverse viewpoints. Centralization, by contrast, tends to dampen local experimentation and can limit participation and regional variety.