GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentEasy
A newly elected city council member is reviewing the city's charter. She learns that the charter specifies distinct duties for the mayor, the city council, and the city manager, ensuring that no single individual or group holds excessive authority. This arrangement is an example of which foundational principle of government?
- AFederalism
- BPopular Sovereignty
- CJudicial Review
- DSeparation of Powers
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Separation of Powers
The division of governmental responsibilities among different branches or offices, preventing excessive power in one entity, is the definition of separation of powers. This principle is applied at all levels of government.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Federalism is the division of power between national and state governments.
- B. Popular sovereignty means that the government's power comes from the will of the people.
- C. Judicial review is the power of courts to determine if laws are constitutional.
Separation of Powers
Separation of powers is a fundamental principle of the U.S. government that divides governmental authority into distinct branches, each with its own responsibilities, to prevent the concentration of power.
- Inspired by Montesquieu
- Divides power among legislative, executive, and judicial branches
- Prevents tyranny and abuse of power
- Complements checks and balances
Memory trick: Separate powers keep the government running smoothly.