what is the purpose of federalism?  To provide the courts a rationale for making excessively narrow judgements. Under federalism, twisted logic is acceptable.  That's why federalism is a tool for those who wish to reduce civil rights, by discrimination.  A liberal court is just the opposite- it will seek at every turn to extend rights to every class, as it is defined into existence.  That's why liberalism is capable of dealing with the future; whereas federalism attempts to hold back the tide.