What is the principle of "separation of powers"?

The principle of "separation of powers" refers to the essential division of government responsibilities into distinct branches, typically the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This concept is foundational to the structure of the United States government as outlined in the Constitution.

By distributing powers among different branches, the separation of powers ensures that no single branch can dominate or exercise unchecked authority. Each branch has its own specific functions and responsibilities: the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws. This framework not only creates a system of checks and balances, enabling branches to monitor and limit each other's powers, but also protects the rights of citizens by preventing abuses of power.

In contrast to the correct choice, other options do not align with this fundamental principle; they depict forms of governance that concentrate power or do not recognize the necessary independence and functions of each branch.