What is the principle of the separation of powers?

• A. Government powers are divided among the legislature, executive, and judiciary to prevent concentration of power.
• B. The powers are concentrated in the executive for efficiency.
• C. The judiciary makes and enforces all laws.
• D. The legislature handles police and defense.

Answer: (A)

The separation of powers is the idea that government tasks are divided among three branches so no single group holds all the power. In practice, this means the legislature makes laws, the executive carries out laws and runs government administration, and the judiciary interprets laws and settles disputes. By keeping these roles separate, each branch can check and balance the others, helping prevent the misuse or concentration of power and protecting people’s rights.

This is why the option that describes powers being divided among the legislative, executive, and judiciary to prevent concentration of power is the best. It captures the purpose of distributing responsibilities and creating mechanisms of accountability.

The other ideas blur or centralize functions. Concentrating power in the executive removes important checks and can lead to abuse. Making and enforcing all laws in one branch collapses the distinction between creating and applying laws, risking tyranny. Having the legislature handle police and defense mixes law-making with enforcement and national security, which undermines clear accountability and proper administration.