Which term describes the idea of government powers being divided and balanced among branches?

Which term describes the idea of government powers being divided and balanced among branches?

• A. separation of powers
• B. divine right
• C. checks and balances
• D. mercantilism

Answer: (C)

Checks and balances describes a system where government power is shared across branches and each branch has ways to limit or counter the others. This keeps any one part of government from getting too strong and protects liberty by forcing cooperation and accountability. The idea comes from Montesquieu, who argued for distinct branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—each with tools to check the others. For example, one branch might pass a law, another can sign or veto it, and the third can review its constitutionality. Impeachment, appointments, and judicial review are additional mechanisms that help maintain balance. The phrase “divided and balanced among branches” matches this concept precisely, since it emphasizes both the division of powers and the safeguards that prevent any branch from dominating. The other terms describe different ideas: divine right is about monarchs ruling by God-given authority, mercantilism is an economic theory, and separation of powers refers to the division itself but not the balancing mechanisms that keep that division in check.

Checks and balances describes a system where government power is shared across branches and each branch has ways to limit or counter the others. This keeps any one part of government from getting too strong and protects liberty by forcing cooperation and accountability. The idea comes from Montesquieu, who argued for distinct branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—each with tools to check the others. For example, one branch might pass a law, another can sign or veto it, and the third can review its constitutionality. Impeachment, appointments, and judicial review are additional mechanisms that help maintain balance. The phrase “divided and balanced among branches” matches this concept precisely, since it emphasizes both the division of powers and the safeguards that prevent any branch from dominating. The other terms describe different ideas: divine right is about monarchs ruling by God-given authority, mercantilism is an economic theory, and separation of powers refers to the division itself but not the balancing mechanisms that keep that division in check.