Ronald Reagan on federalism
1) If people, acting voluntarily, can resolve a problem on their own, there
is no need for government at any level to do anything other than stay out of
the way and say "thank you."
2) If a problem can be resolved at the city level, there is no need for a
higher level of government to be involved.
3) If cities have common problems, these can be resolved at the county level
or through an informal association of cities with no higher level of
government involved.
4) Counties having problems should turn first to the establishment of
regional agencies of counties.
5) If a state can adequately handle a problem, there is no need for federal
intervention.
6) If several states have common problems, they are to informally associate
to resolve these problems with federal action needed only if there is
impasse.
7) National governments should operate without interference from other
nations or global institutions unless they need outside assistance in
dealing with a problem or they pose a threat to world peace.
8) International agreements are essential to resolving disputes and
stabilizing regions.
9) Global institutions are essential, but under very limited circumstances,
to deal exclusively with problems beyond the capability of nations to handle
themselves.