What do Checks and Balances refer to in government?

Checks and balances refer to a fundamental principle in the structure of government that ensures that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—can gain excessive power or authority. This system allows each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the others, creating a balance of power that is essential for a democratic government to function effectively.

For instance, the legislative branch has the power to create laws, but the executive branch can veto those laws. Meanwhile, the judicial branch can interpret laws and determine their constitutionality, effectively checking both the legislative and executive branches. This interdependence establishes a mechanism where cooperation and conflict must occur, promoting accountability and preventing abuse.

This dynamic interplay is crucial for maintaining a democratic framework and ensuring that power is not centralized, which could lead to tyranny or authoritarianism. The other answer choices do not accurately represent the Checks and Balances system; they either suggest oppressive dominance, complete independence without oversight, or an increase in power for one branch, all of which contradict the intended purpose of this governmental principle.