Checks and balances

Checks and balances

In most modern constitutions, the separation of powers doctrine is modified by the notion of moderate, balanced government or checks and balances – a distinct idea that was developed from the ancient theory of mixed government. Since the two concepts developed alongside each other, they have been closely associated, even though they are in conflict to some extent. Further, constitutional provisions – notably those of the United States Constitution – may reflect compromises between the two principles, leading the terms "separation of powers" and "checks and balances" to become shorthand for the institutional distribution of legal authority under a specific constitution. They are at times even used interchangeably.