Which constitutional principle ensures that power is divided among branches of government?

The principle that ensures power is divided among branches of government is the separation of powers. This concept, developed by political philosophers such as Montesquieu, delineates the functions and powers of the three branches of government: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial. By distributing power among these branches, the separation of powers prevents any one branch from gaining too much authority, thereby promoting a system of governance designed to protect individual freedoms and maintain a balanced government.

Each branch has specific responsibilities: the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws. This framework is fundamental to the operation of the United States constitutional system. While checks and balances are also a crucial aspect of the government, allowing each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the others, it is the separation of powers that specifically outlines the division of government roles and responsibilities.