What system allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches?

The system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches is known as Checks and Balances. This framework is designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—can dominate the government or exert unchecked power. For instance, the legislative branch has the power to create laws, but the executive branch can veto legislation, while the judicial branch can rule those laws unconstitutional.

The concept of Checks and Balances is integral to the functioning of a democratic government, promoting accountability and preventing the abuse of power. It encourages cooperation and consideration among the branches, fostering a balance where each must work with the others, thereby protecting the rights of citizens and upholding the principles of democracy.

While Separation of Powers refers to the distribution of government responsibilities among the three branches, it is Checks and Balances that actively describes how these branches operate in relation to one another. Federalism pertains to the division of power between national and state governments, and Limited Government emphasizes the restriction of government power, but it does not specifically address the interaction between branches.