Which concept states that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed?

Which concept states that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed?

• A. Rule of law
• B. Federalism
• C. Popular sovereignty
• D. Separation of powers

Answer: (C)

Popular sovereignty is the idea that governments derive their authority from the people, giving consent to be governed. This means the legitimacy of a government comes from citizens who participate—through elections, voting for leaders, and engaging in civic life—and can withdraw that consent if the government fails to serve their interests. In the United States, this is reflected in “We the People” and in the ability of people to elect representatives and periodically change leaders. This concept underpins constitutional government and the right to alter or abolish governments that no longer reflect the will of the governed. The other terms describe different structural principles: the rule of law means everyone, including those in power, is bound by laws; federalism concerns the division of power between national and state governments; separation of powers splits government duties among branches to prevent the concentration of authority.

Popular sovereignty is the idea that governments derive their authority from the people, giving consent to be governed. This means the legitimacy of a government comes from citizens who participate—through elections, voting for leaders, and engaging in civic life—and can withdraw that consent if the government fails to serve their interests. In the United States, this is reflected in “We the People” and in the ability of people to elect representatives and periodically change leaders. This concept underpins constitutional government and the right to alter or abolish governments that no longer reflect the will of the governed. The other terms describe different structural principles: the rule of law means everyone, including those in power, is bound by laws; federalism concerns the division of power between national and state governments; separation of powers splits government duties among branches to prevent the concentration of authority.