Which theory of government supports the idea that multiple groups can check the power of any one group?

The theory that supports the idea that multiple groups can check the power of any one group is pluralism. Pluralism asserts that in a democratic society, various interest groups and organizations have the opportunity to participate in political processes, which leads to competition among them. This competition ensures that no single group can dominate or monopolize power.

In a pluralistic system, these diverse groups can influence policy and decision-making, thus providing a balance of power. The presence of multiple voices and interests helps to represent a wider range of perspectives, preventing tyranny by ensuring that different viewpoints are heard and considered in the political arena. This dynamic encourages negotiation and compromise, vital to a functioning democracy.

In contrast, federalism distributes power between national, state, and local governments but doesn’t inherently address the balance among various interest groups. Monopolism relates to a concentration of control or power within a single entity, which contradicts the key principles of pluralism. Meritocracy focuses on the idea that power and positions should be awarded based on ability and talent rather than identity or wealth, and does not directly pertain to the competition and checking of group powers. Thus, pluralism best encapsulates the mechanism by which multiple groups can check each other's power within the government framework.