he term devolution is used to explain

a.the current trend to shift authority from the federal government to state and local governments. 

b.the necessity for keeping federal and state spheres of responsibility absolutely separate from each other. 

c.a failed political revolution. 

d.increased recognition that the industrial economy is not confined by state boundaries and must be subject to some level of national regulation. 

e.the trend of increased importance of the federal government over the states in all areas of policy.