In this paper, the author raised the question of whether the separation of powers is a useless concept. It points out to insufficient reflection of its theoretical and philosophical origins.  The  paper also  distinguishes its components, which it then analyses in more detail. Great attention is dedicated to the tension between the system of checks and balances and the institutional independence. It also examines the purpose of the separation of powers, warning that we can no longer seek it exclusively in the prevention of tyranny but rather in the optimization of government. At the end of the paper is emphasized the need to examine the question of how to solve tension between these components.