What is the term for the division of power between the national government and the states?

The term that describes the division of power between the national government and the states is federalism. In a federal system, power is shared and divided between different levels of government, allowing for both national and subnational entities to operate within their designated areas of authority. This arrangement helps to balance the interests of both a central government and regional governments, enabling them to operate effectively in their respective jurisdictions.

Federalism is characterized by the existence of a constitution that delineates the powers of both the national and state governments, often allowing for local governance and decision-making. This structure facilitates a diversity of governance that reflects the needs and preferences of various regions within a nation.

The other terms do not correctly describe this division of power. Confederalism refers to a system where the majority of power rests with local governments rather than a central authority, while a unitary system centralizes authority in a single national government, leaving little power for individual states or regions. Authoritarianism denotes a political system characterized by a concentration of power in a leader or an elite that limits individual freedoms, but it does not specifically address the distribution of power between national and state governments.