What fundamental concept ensures that government powers are limited?

The concept of constitutionalism is central to ensuring that government powers are limited. It refers to the principle that the authority of the government is defined and constrained by a constitution. This framework establishes the fundamental rules and guidelines under which a government operates, thereby protecting individual rights and liberties by preventing arbitrary power.

A constitution typically outlines the distribution of powers among various branches of government and specifies the rights of citizens. This limitation on power is crucial for maintaining a system of governance that is accountable to the people, ensuring that no single entity can exercise unchecked authority. Through constitutionalism, the rule of law prevails, and governmental actions are expected to align with established legal standards.

In contrast, while checks and balances, popular sovereignty, and judicial review all play significant roles in the governance system, they function within the broader framework of constitutionalism. Checks and balances distribute power among different branches of government, popular sovereignty emphasizes that government derives its authority from the consent of the governed, and judicial review allows courts to interpret laws and assess their constitutionality. However, it is constitutionalism that fundamentally provides the blueprint for limiting government power. This foundational concept underlies the mechanisms that uphold the principles of democracy and protect citizens from tyranny.