Which principle of government ensures that no one branch becomes too powerful?

The principle of government that ensures no one branch becomes too powerful is the separation of powers. This concept divides government responsibilities into distinct branches—typically the executive, legislative, and judicial. Each branch has its own powers and responsibilities, which creates a system of checks and balances. This means that each branch can monitor and limit the actions of the others, thus preventing any single branch from accumulating excessive power or authority.

For example, the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces them, and the judicial branch interprets them. If one branch attempts to overreach its authority, the others can intervene to maintain the balance of power. This foundational principle is crucial to maintaining democracy and protecting individual freedoms, as it prevents tyranny by ensuring that power is not concentrated in one entity.