WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Introduction. The concept of separation of powers was first proposed by the French philosopher Montesquieu in his book, “The Spirit of the Laws, ” published in 1748. He argued that the powers of the government should be divided among three branches namely, the legislative, executive, and judicial.

Detailed explanation-2: -The term “trias politica” or “separation of powers” was coined by Charles-Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu, an 18th century French social and political philosopher.

Detailed explanation-3: -Montesquieu went on to clarify the idea in his own words: “When the legislative and executive powers are united in the same person, or in the same body or magistrates, there can be no liberty. Again, there is no liberty if the judicial power is not separated from the legislative and executive powers.

Detailed explanation-4: -Montesquieu concluded that the best form of government was one in which the legislative, executive, and judicial powers were separate and kept each other in check to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful. He believed that uniting these powers, as in the monarchy of Louis XIV, would lead to despotism.