What is the purpose of "separation of powers"?

The purpose of "separation of powers" is fundamentally about creating a system of checks and balances within government to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. By distributing authority among different branches—typically the legislative, executive, and judicial branches—the government is structured to ensure that each branch has distinct responsibilities and powers. This distribution helps maintain a balance and fosters accountability, as each branch can monitor and limit the actions of the others. Consequently, this principle is crucial for upholding democracy and the rule of law, as it encourages cooperative governance and protects citizens' rights by preventing abuse of power.