State Government
Laboratories of Democracy
Definition
The idea that states can test new policies before the whole nation adopts them. Justice Louis Brandeis described states this way in a 1932 dissent.
Related Terms
Federalism
The system that divides power between the national government and the states. Each level has its own powers, and some powers are shared.
State LegislatureThe lawmaking body of a state. Most states have a bicameral legislature with a senate and house/assembly.
Ballot InitiativeA process that allows citizens to propose new laws or constitutional amendments by collecting a required number of petition signatures.
More State Government Terms
Common Questions
- What does "Laboratories of Democracy" mean?
- The idea that states can test new policies before the whole nation adopts them. Justice Louis Brandeis described states this way in a 1932 dissent.
- What terms are related to laboratories of democracy?
- Related terms include: Federalism, State Legislature, Ballot Initiative. Understanding these related concepts helps provide context for laboratories of democracy.