How the System Works
Separation of Powers
Why we split the atom of sovereignty.
The Founders famously split the government into three branches: Legislative (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), and Judicial (interprets laws).
This was not for efficiency. In fact, it was designed to be inefficient. It is much faster for a king to make, enforce, and judge a law all at once. But it is also much more dangerous. By separating these functions, the Founders ensured no single person or group could hold all three powers.
Architecture vs. Interaction
Separation of powers is the architecture; checks and balances are the interactions. The branches are not just separate — they are designed to actively constrain each other.
Why Efficiency Was the Enemy
Concentrated power is efficient. It is also the primary threat to liberty throughout human history. The Founders traded speed for safety. Every friction point in our system is a deliberate obstacle to tyranny.