Final answer:
The success of a presidential system depends on a strong separation of powers, an effective system of checks and balances, a stable political environment, and widespread trust in the government. These factors balance effective governance with protections against power abuse and enhance the system's legitimacy and functionality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conditions for a Successful Presidential System
The success of a presidential system of government is contingent upon several key conditions. Firstly, it requires a strong separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful. Secondly, an effective system of checks and balances is critical to ensure that the different branches of government can each restrain the powers of the others, promoting cooperation and compromise, especially in policymaking.
A stable political environment contributes to the functionality of a presidential system by providing a predictable setting in which the various branches can operate effectively. Additionally, widespread support and trust in the government by the populace enhances the legitimacy and thus the effectiveness of the presidential system. While divided government, where the presidency and the legislative branch are controlled by different parties, can lead to challenges, it also acts as an important check on executive power.
Presidential systems, like that of the United States, can potentially thrive when these elements are in place, reflecting a balance between the need for effective governance and the protections against the abuse of power. Notably, a president's ability to lead and pursue a policy agenda effectively also depends on the political context, including party control of Congress and external events that may call for decisive leadership.