Final answer:
Devolution refers to the process of returning power, authority, and responsibility to state and local levels of government. It allows state and local governments to act as 'laboratories of democracy' and handle responsibilities that were previously under the federal government's jurisdiction. Devolution is a way to distribute power more evenly between the central and local governments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Devolution refers to the process of returning power, authority, and responsibility to state and local levels of government. It is a way to decentralize the government and give more control to the states. This idea is often seen as a way to have state and local governments act as 'laboratories of democracy' where they can experiment with different policies and solutions that fit their specific needs.
For example, in the United States, devolution has led to state governments handling responsibilities that were previously under the jurisdiction of the federal government. This includes programs like welfare, which are generally administered at the state level. Devolution allows interests and lobbying efforts to target state capitals rather than just Washington, DC.
Overall, devolution is a way to distribute power and authority more evenly between the central government and local governments.