Separation of powers is a constitutional doctrine that divides the responsibilities and powers of government among three separate branches—the legislative, executive, and judicial branches—to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. This division ensures a system of checks and balances where each branch can monitor and limit the actions of the others, thus safeguarding liberty and preventing tyranny. The legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces them, and the judicial branch interprets and applies the law through courts.
