Principles of checks and balances - SS1 Government Lesson Note

Checks and balances is a principle of government that ensures that no one branch or person has too much power. The principle involves each branch of government having the ability to limit or check the power of the other branches.

For example, the legislative branch may make laws, but the executive branch can veto them, and the judicial branch can declare them unconstitutional. Similarly, the executive branch may enforce laws, but the legislative branch can impeach the executive, and the judicial branch can rule that executive actions are unconstitutional.

Checks and balances are intended to prevent abuses of power, ensure that all branches of government are accountable, and protect individual rights and freedoms. By having multiple branches of government with separate powers and responsibilities, it is less likely that any one person or group will be able to take control and act against the interests of the people.

The principle of checks and balances is a key feature of many modern democracies, and is intended to ensure that power is distributed fairly and that the government is accountable to the people.