Checks And Balances
Definition
Checks And Balances is a system that allows each branch of a government to amend or veto acts of another branch so as to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power.
Analogy
Checks and Balances are like the rules in a game of rock-paper-scissors. Each choice (rock, paper, or scissors) has the ability to defeat one option but can be defeated by another. This ensures no single choice becomes too powerful.
Related terms
Executive Branch: The part of government that enforces law. It includes the president, vice president, and other officials such as cabinet members and executive officers.
Legislative Branch: This is the part of government that creates laws. In the United States, it consists of Congress which is divided into two parts - House of Representatives and Senate.
Judicial Branch: This is the part of government that interprets laws. It includes courts and judges.
"Checks And Balances" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (2)
- Which Enlightenment thinker is known for his ideas on the separation of powers and the importance of checks and balances in government?
- Which Enlightenment figure's ideas most directly influenced the development of checks and balances in government?
Resources
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