What principle is designed to prevent the abuse of government powers?

• A. Checks and balances
• B. Separation of Powers
• C. Federalism
• D. Popular sovereignty

Answer: (B)

The principle that is designed to prevent the abuse of government powers is separation of powers. This concept is foundational to the structure of the U.S. Constitution, creating distinct branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—each with separate responsibilities and powers. By dividing governmental authority in this way, it ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful or oversteps its authority, thereby protecting citizens' rights and maintaining a system of accountability.

Each branch has a specific role: the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws. This division not only clearly outlines their functions but also provides a framework where each branch can limit the powers of the others through various checks and balances. Thus, the separation of powers establishes a systematic approach to prevent governmental overreach and protect democratic principles.