The document discusses the growth of the federal government since 1789 and asks questions about whether it will continue growing and why or why not. It also asks about specific vs. vague constitutional provisions and how the latter have allowed Americans to adapt to changing times. Comparisons are requested of federalism under FDR, Nixon, Clinton and Bush. Questions are posed about remaining state/regional differences and homogenizing influences, as well as intact political subcultures and regional resentments. Reasons why the federal system may be tilting toward decentralization and fragmentation are sought. Examples are requested of types of federal aid a community/state receives daily.

1. 1.
The federal government has grown immensely since 1789.
Discuss reasons for this growth. Can we expect government to
continue to grow? Why? Why not?
2. The Constitution is specific about some features of the
relationships between national and state governments and vague
about some other features. Give examples of both specific and
vague provisions and discuss how the latter have helped
Americans adapt the Constitution to changing times.
3. Compare and contrast federalism under FDR, Nixon, Clinton
and Bush.
4. Are there still significant state and regional differences?
What factors have a homogenizing influence? Are any of the
traditional political subcultures intact? Do you think
Southerners still resent Northerners and vice-versa?
5. Why is our federal system tilting/moving towards
decentralization and fragmentation?
6. Provide examples of the types of federal aid your
community/state receives on a day-to-day basis.