Question

Question 1(Multiple Choice Worth 3 points)


Which of the following quotes best relates to the idea of separation of powers?

“The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others.”—Thomas Jefferson

"The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield and government to gain ground."—Thomas Jefferson

"You have rights antecedent to all earthly governments; rights that cannot be repealed.”—John Adams

“The judicial power ought to be distinct from both the legislative and executive.”—John Adams


Question 2(Multiple Choice Worth 3 points)


Read the quote. Then answer the question that follows.


“The judicial power ought to be distinct from both the legislative and executive, and independent upon both, that so it may be a check upon both, as both should be checks upon that.” – John Adams


Which of the following Enlightenment ideas does John Adams support i

Answer 1

The correct answer is “The judicial power ought to be distinct from both the legislative and executive, and independent upon both, that so it may be a check upon both, as both should be checks upon that.” – John Adams.

This would be the correct answer because in this quote John Adams highlights the idea that the independence of the judicial power allows for checks and balances between the three powers.  

The term "Separation of powers" refers to a system in which a state organizes and divides responsibilities.  Creating three different branches which are: the judicial power, the legislative power and the executive power.  In this way each branch carries out their responsibilities independently, promoting a checks and balances system that prevents any of the branches from taking over or interrupting in the other branches' functions.