Under the separation of powers doctrine, what are the three branches of government?

The three branches of government established under the separation of powers doctrine are the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches. This framework is designed to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful, as each branch has distinct functions and responsibilities.

The Executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws and is headed by the President or a governor, depending on the level of government. The Legislative branch is tasked with creating laws and is composed of elected representatives, such as Congress at the federal level or state legislatures. The Judicial branch interprets laws and administers justice, headed by courts and judges.

This separation creates a system of checks and balances where each branch can limit the powers of the others, promoting accountability and preventing abuses of power within the government. Understanding this foundational concept is critical in comprehending how government operates and maintains order and fairness in society.