How does the principle of separation of powers limit congress?

Answer 1

The principle of separation of powers limits Congress by dividing the powers of the government into three separate branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful or dominates the others. Specifically, the principle of separation of powers limits Congress by:

1. Checking and balancing the powers of the other branches: Congress cannot pass laws that violate the Constitution or infringe on the powers of the other branches of government.

2. Limiting the scope of legislation: Congress cannot pass laws that exceed its constitutional authority or that violate individual rights and liberties.

3. Ensuring accountability: Congress is accountable to the people and must answer to them for its actions, including legislative decisions.

In summary, the principle of separation of powers limits Congress by ensuring that it cannot act beyond its constitutional authority, violate individual rights and liberties, or become too powerful relative to the other branches of government.