What does the term "checks and balances" refer to?

The term "checks and balances" refers to a fundamental principle in the organization of government where each branch—executive, legislative, and judicial—has the authority to limit the powers of the other branches. This system is designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful, which is essential for maintaining the rule of law and protecting individual liberties.

The framers of the Constitution were particularly concerned about the potential for tyranny if one branch were to dominate the others. Therefore, they created a structure where powers are distributed and each branch can exercise oversight over the others, such as the legislative branch being able to pass laws, the executive branch having the power to veto, and the judicial branch able to declare laws unconstitutional. This intricate system promotes collaboration and accountability among the branches while safeguarding democratic governance.

Understanding "checks and balances" is crucial as it illustrates the careful design of the U.S. government to ensure that power is not centralized, but rather shared and regulated among different entities. This mechanism has played a vital role in the endurance of American democracy throughout its history.