What system allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches?

The system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches is known as Checks and Balances. This concept is a fundamental principle of the United States Constitution, designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—can dominate or abuse its power.

Under this system, each branch has specific abilities to monitor and influence the actions of the others. For example, the legislative branch has the power to create laws, but the executive branch can veto legislation. Conversely, the legislative branch can override that veto with a sufficient majority. The judicial branch can interpret laws and has the authority to declare acts of the other branches unconstitutional, thereby providing a significant check on both the legislative and executive powers.

In contrast, while the Separation of Powers establishes the distinct functions and duties of each branch of government, it is the Checks and Balances that implements the mechanisms by which each branch can restrict the powers of the others. Judicial Review pertains specifically to the courts’ ability to evaluate laws and their adherence to the Constitution. Direct Democracy involves citizen participation in decision-making but does not relate to the structure and function of government branches or their interrelations.