Which one of the following factors constitutes the best safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy?
[amp_mcq option1=”A committed judiciary” option2=”Centralization of powers” option3=”Elected government” option4=”Separation of powers” correct=”option4″]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2021
– Centralization of powers (B) is generally detrimental to liberty, leading towards potential authoritarianism.
– An elected government (C) is fundamental to democracy, but without constitutional limits and separation of powers, even an elected body can infringe upon liberties (e.g., tyranny of the majority).
– Thus, separation of powers is considered the foundational principle that best safeguards liberty by distributing authority and establishing checks and balances.