Which policy approach allows states more involvement in social policy?

The correct answer, New Federalism, refers to a political philosophy that aims to shift the balance of power and responsibility for social policy from the federal government back to the states. This approach emphasizes the role of states in addressing various social policies such as education, health care, and welfare, allowing them greater flexibility to tailor programs to their specific needs and populations.

New Federalism champions the idea that local and state governments often have a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by their communities compared to a one-size-fits-all federal approach. This is particularly relevant in crafting social policies, as local contexts can significantly influence the effectiveness of such policies. By empowering states to take a more active role, New Federalism promotes innovation and experimentation in social policy implementation.

In contrast, the other options often denote a higher level of federal involvement or a different conceptualization of federal-state relations that does not prioritize state control to the same extent. Centralized federalism can imply greater federal oversight and control, while cooperative federalism suggests a collaborative approach that may not distinctly empower states. Progressive federalism typically focuses on using state and local innovation to address issues, but it does so within a framework that can still lean heavily on federal initiatives.