Federalism is an academic concept and field of study within political science and public administration that analyzes systems of governance characterized by the constitutional division of powers and functions between at least two distinct levels of government, typically national and regional, each exercising direct authority over its citizens. It investigates the structure, dynamics, evolution, and consequences of this division, exploring issues of sovereignty, intergovernmental relations, policy making, fiscal arrangements, and the balance of power, highlighting its significance for state formation, political stability, and the distribution of resources and rights within a polity.