American System

The theories Morton Grodzins developed from his life-long study of the American system are again available in this classic. It is a timely reprinting, given the policies of today's New Federalism. Thirty years ago, Grodzins hypothesized that government functions were shared by all levels of government. Using original research results, he interpreted, clarified, and structured data into a unique and highly analytical statement on American federalism. Said Grodzins: This book is in happy disagreement with the prophets of doom who are so fashionable today. Our federalism does creak at its joints. But these are creaks indicating a healthy flexibility. Daniel Elazar was a student of Grodzins who has described his teacher's thinking as unconventional for its time. Grodzins had argued that increased federal activity in states' affairs strengthen local programs without legislative power loss. Believing in the American system in which the consensus reflects all national interests or questions about it, Grodzins argued that the actions of special interest groups help mould the national interest.