Which concept traditionally allows for the negotiation of power among different branches of government to prevent one from becoming too powerful?

The concept of checks and balances is essential in the governance structure of many democratic systems. It ensures that each branch of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—has the ability to limit the powers of the others, thereby preventing any one branch from becoming too dominant. This framework helps to maintain a balance of power within the government and promotes accountability among the branches.

Checks and balances work through various mechanisms, such as the legislative branch's ability to pass legislation, the executive branch's power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch's authority to review laws for constitutionality. These interdependent relationships foster a system of mutual oversight where each branch can be held accountable by the others, thus safeguarding democratic principles and protecting citizens' rights.

While other concepts mentioned, such as power sharing and government accountability, touch upon important aspects of governance, they do not specifically describe the structural framework that facilitates the negotiation of power among branches of government. Civic engagement focuses on the participation of citizens in the political process, which is vital but distinct from how power is balanced among government branches.