Question

Difficulty: EasySeparation of Powers and Checks and Balances

According to the doctrine of separation of powers popularized by Baron de Montesquieu, the primary objective of dividing government powers into distinct legislative, executive, and judicial organs is to prevent tyranny and protect individual liberty. Is this statement true or false?

Answer: Answer

Answer

The statement is True.
The statement is true because French philosopher Baron de Montesquieu emphasized in 'The Spirit of the Laws' (1748) that separating the functions of law-making, law execution, and law adjudication among distinct government branches is necessary to prevent authoritarianism and guarantee democratic freedoms.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core principle being tested
The statement describes the theoretical origin and objective of the doctrine of separation of powers by Baron de Montesquieu.
Understanding the fundamental motivation behind separating government organs is essential to constitutional law.
2
Evaluate the political theory rationale
Montesquieu advocated that liberty exists only when the legislative, executive, and judicial powers are separated to prevent abuse of power.
Concentration of power leads to oppressive and autocratic governance.
3
Determine the truth value of the statement
The statement accurately expresses the foundational purpose of the separation of powers doctrine.
The premise correctly reflects standard political science theory and constitutional principles.

Key Concept

Foundational rationale for the doctrine of Separation of Powers
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