Why is the balance of power critical in a democracy?

The balance of power is critical in a democracy because it prevents excessive power from accumulating in any single branch of government. This concept is fundamental to the structure of democratic governance, ensuring that different branches—typically the executive, legislative, and judicial—each have distinct responsibilities and powers. By creating a system of checks and balances, each branch can monitor and limit the functions of the others. This framework helps protect against tyranny and abuse of power, promoting accountability and fair representation of citizens' interests. The idea is that if branches are able to overrule each other excessively or if one branch dominates, it could lead to undemocratic practices or the erosion of individual rights. Thus, the balance of power is essential for maintaining a functional and equitable democracy.