5kYL: Principle Sixteen

SEPARATION OF POWERS

Both Polybius and Montesquieu were influential in explaining a more perfect form of government in which powers are divided while at the same time in coordination. Montesquieu understood that if the powers of the executive and legislative were instilled in a single body, liberty is destroyed. This is a problem we face now with our two party system. If both Houses of Congress and the White House are controlled by one party, it is unlikely that any checks and balances occur because it is unusual that politicians break from the party line.

Now, likewise, a separate judiciary is necessary to ensure the laws are in compliance with the Constitution and ensure the laws are enforced. Here I must add the importance of electing the proper legislators and President as they appoint and confirm whom may occupy the judiciary. This is the one branch of our government that cannot be over-ruled by the other branches. Instead rulings can only be overturned by succeeding judiciaries. This happens seldom.

I must point out here, as Skousen does, the influence of John Adams in establishing the separation of powers in the Constitution of the United States of America. You may want to explore more about John Adams in David McCullough's book, or look for a copy of The American Enlightenment, which is the book cited in this chapter.