Problems should be solved by those closest to the problem. Why should local problems be dealt with by a central government filled with people that do not understand local conditions? Furthermore, central governments are less responsive than local governments, so they are slower to fix failed policies.
I do not understand worries about a "lack of unity" due to local self-governance. Most issues, like local law enforcement and building codes, are inherently local and therefore do not require national cooperation. Any issues that do require national cooperation, like defense and diplomacy, should be the sole object of a central government.
At 8/29/08 03:17 PM, drDAK wrote:
Local self government makes sense, but the idea that states can make seperate laws doesn't really.
Without the ability to legislate, there can be no self-government. If local governments could not pass laws or ordinances, then all they could do is carry out laws passed by central government, which defeats to purpose of local government. There is a proper role for local governments, and they should be able to legislate so that they can fulfill that proper role.