Which philosopher argued that government should be divided into separate branches to prevent tyranny?

• A. Locke
• B. Montesquieu
• C. Hobbes
• D. Rousseau

Answer: (B)

Separation of powers to prevent tyranny is the main idea. Montesquieu argued that government power should be divided into separate branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—to prevent the concentration of authority and to create checks and balances. By keeping these powers distinct and having them oversee one another, it becomes harder for a single group to seize control and abuse citizens’ rights. This structure influenced many modern constitutions, most famously the United States Constitution, which adopts a similar tripartite framework. Other thinkers envisioned government differently: Hobbes argued for a strong sovereign to avoid chaos, Locke emphasized protecting natural rights and government by consent without a formal tripartite division, and Rousseau stressed popular sovereignty and the general will.