Final answer:
The idea that authority should be distributed among three branches is known as the principle of separation of powers. This is to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful, ensuring a system of checks and balances in the U.S. government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The idea that authority should be distributed among three branches of government is the principle of separation of powers.
This principle is fundamental to the structure of the United States government, where power is distributed among the legislative (lawmaking), executive (law implementing and executing), and judicial (law interpreting and enforcing) branches. This separation of powers is a safeguard against tyranny and ensures no one branch can exercise too much control. Each branch has its own roles and responsibilities and is equipped with a system of checks and balances to regulate the power of the other branches. This creates a balance where authority is not concentrated but rather distributed, requiring cooperation among the various branches to function effectively and adequately protect the rights and freedom of the citizenry.