MENTAL MODEL · M7028

Separation of Powers

SystemsHigh supportSystems Theory

Included

Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

A political principle proposed by Montesquieu, which divides state power into legislative, executive, and judicial branches, exercised by different institutions that check and balance each other to prevent the excessive concentration of power.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Use structure to counter human weaknesses. Assume that any power will be abused, so use power to check power. This principle can be extended to any system design that needs to prevent the concentration of power.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Based on the human assumption that 'power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.' When the same entity simultaneously holds the power to make rules, execute them, and adjudicate disputes, there is a lack of error correction and external constraints. Separation of powers creates friction costs through 'mutual veto/checks,' making it difficult for any single force to act arbitrarily, thereby protecting minorities and freedom.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

Identify functions: break down system power into three categories: 'rule-making—execution—adjudication.'
Separate entities: let different institutions/roles hold each respectively, avoiding overlap.
Set up checks and balances: give each party means to constrain the others (e.g., veto, review).
Transparency and accountability: leave traces of power operation for supervision and accountability.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

link
en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_powersZH · Explicit
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