Question

It may be a reflection on human nature, that such devices [checks and balances] should be necessary to control the abuses of government. . . . If men were angels, no government would be necessary.

This passage says that the government is necessary because
.

The passage states that checks and balances are needed to
.

Answer 1

This passage says that the government is necessary because people are not angels — human nature is imperfect and can lead to abuses of power.

The passage states that checks and balances are needed to prevent and control those abuses of government by limiting any one branch or person from gaining too much power.