Separation of Powers

What is Separation of Powers?

Within Economics & Civics, which covers money, markets, business, government, law and citizenship: how societies are organised and run, this topic explains Separation of Powers. Economics and civics topics explain how money, markets, laws and government affect people, so each topic here pairs a clear definition with a model.

Check that you can explain Separation of Powers in your own words and give one example from everyday life. If you can do that, you have understood the core idea.

Understanding Separation of Powers helps you read the news critically and weigh up policies, choices and arguments about society.

Separation of Powers in detail

The separation of powers divides government into three branches to prevent any one from becoming too powerful: the legislature (makes laws), the executive (carries them out) and the judiciary (interprets and applies them). The idea comes from thinkers such as Montesquieu.

Each branch can check and balance the others. In the USA, the separation is strict, with President, Congress and Supreme Court, with clear checks, such as the presidential veto. In the UK, the executive sits in Parliament, so the separation is less strict, though judges are independent. The principle protects liberty and accountability.

How the interactive helps you understand Separation of Powers

Watch the pie chart in the interactive. Use any sliders or buttons it offers to change the values and see how the pie chart responds.

Before you change anything, predict the result. Then change one value at a time and check whether your prediction was right. This is a quick way to build a correct mental model of Separation of Powers.

Real-life uses and examples

• Use Separation of Powers to weigh up the pros and costs of a policy or decision.
• Explain Separation of Powers to a classmate using a choice you make yourself, such as spending pocket money.
• Give a balanced answer about Separation of Powers by considering more than one point of view.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Confusing a short-term effect with a long-term one.
• Giving an opinion without evidence or a clear economic or civic reason.
• Learning the definition without testing it. Use the quiz and the interactive to check that you can apply the idea.