Both are distinct, separate, and independent entities, each with its own powers and restrictions. Leagues of states, or federations, had already existed, but were centrally controlled. This confusion in nomenclature has caused us to lose sight of the important distinction that under our federal system, the national government was meant to have specifically defined powers with all other powers left in the hands of the people or the states. Yet this astute method of keeping the central government at bay has been seriously eroded as the states have lost, or given up, much of their independence. Dr. Carson further observes that the doctrine of states' rights is being dangerously misused.
Rights belong only to individuals.
This term has a nice, conservative ring to it, making it easy to overlook the fact that the liberties of persons are really at stake. Another fateful impression put across by this doctrine is that whatever power happens to be under dispute must fall within the jurisdiction of either the national or state governments, rather than neither. This division of powers as expressed in the Tenth Amendment is amplified by further limitations such as the crucial separation of legislative, judicial, and executive powers, now also seriously breached. Even further for our protection, the form of government given to us is a republic, not a democracy. It is surprising to learn from the late M.E. Bradford just how undemocratic we are.