The purpose of checks and balances in governance is to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. This system divides authority among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, ensuring that each branch can limit the powers of the others. For example, the legislative branch can pass laws, but the executive can veto them. Similarly, the judiciary can rule laws unconstitutional. This framework promotes accountability and protects against tyranny, fostering a balanced exercise of power that is crucial for a functioning democracy.