Includes bibliographical references (p. 143-150).

1. Introduction -- 2. The Case for Strong National Authority. A. Concepts of Federalism Impose No Significant Constitutional Limits on the Exercise of National Authority or on the Displacement of State Law and Regulation by National Law. B. The Existence of Significant State Autonomy Is Economically Counterproductive. C. Strong National Authority Is Needed in Order to Protect the Rights and Interests of Individuals and Groups -- 3. The Case for Federalism as a Constraint on National Authority. A. The History and Text of the Constitution, As Well As Developments during and since Its Ratification, Guarantee Both the Existence of the States and Their Right to Play a Significant Role in the Federal System. B. The Preservation of a Significant Policy-Making Role for the States Is Not Only Constitutionally Required But Also Economically, Socially, and Politically Desirable -- 4. Striking the Balance: Federalism and Dialogue -- A. Introduction. B. The Constitutional and Structural Bases of Our Federal System. C. The Exercise of Discretion. D. Some Concluding Thoughts: Federalism as a Dialogue -- Postscript on the Decision in United States v. Lopez.