What principle allows for the division of authority among different branches of government?

The principle that facilitates the division of authority among different branches of government is known as Separation of Powers. This concept is foundational to the structure of the U.S. government, as outlined in the Constitution. The framers intended to prevent any single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—from gaining too much power, thus protecting against tyranny and ensuring that power is distributed. Each branch has distinct functions and responsibilities: the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws. This separation aims to create a system of checks and balances, where each branch can limit the powers of the others, contributing to the overall stability and effectiveness of the government.

The other principles, while related to the overarching themes of governance, focus on different aspects: Checks and Balances specifically describes how the branches interact to oversee each other's powers; Popular Sovereignty asserts that government derives its authority from the people; and Limited Government emphasizes that the government is restricted in its powers to protect individual freedoms. While all are important in understanding the U.S. political system, Separation of Powers directly addresses the division of authority among branches.