Checks and balances is a foundational principle in government designed to prevent any one branch—from the executive, legislative, or judicial—from gaining excessive power. This system establishes mechanisms for each branch to oversee and limit the others, promoting accountability and ensuring that decisions reflect a balance of interests. By requiring cooperation and consensus among branches, checks and balances protect against abuses of power, authoritarianism, and arbitrary governance. This principle is essential for maintaining a democratic framework, fostering transparency, and ensuring adherence to the rule of law.