What does the term "separation of powers" refer to?

The term "separation of powers" fundamentally refers to the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches, which is crucial in maintaining checks and balances within the U.S. government. This concept was designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful and to promote a system of governance where legislative, executive, and judicial powers are clearly delineated.

The legislative branch is responsible for making laws, the executive branch for enforcing them, and the judicial branch for interpreting them. This framework ensures that power is spread out and that each branch has the ability to limit the powers of the others, promoting accountability and protecting liberty. The architects of the U.S. Constitution, notably influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu, incorporated this principle to secure freedom and prevent tyranny.

Understanding this concept is essential, as it informs how the government operates and the importance of maintaining an equilibrium among the branches to uphold democratic principles.