What is the concept of popular sovereignty?

• A. Government derives its power from the consent of the governed.
• B. Government derives its power from divine right.
• C. Government derives its power from economic elites.
• D. Government derives its power from the military.

Answer: (A)

Popular sovereignty is the idea that a government’s authority comes from the people, who grant legitimacy through their consent and participation. This shows up when citizens vote, run for office, and influence laws and leaders, effectively authorizing the governing system to act on their behalf. In the U.S., this is echoed in phrases like “We the People” and the practice of elections, which tie political power to the will of the people. This concept contrasts with other justifications for rule—divine right claims authority comes from God; economic elites argue power rests with wealth and influence; and military rule rests on force. Because popular sovereignty centers on the people’s consent as the source of government power, it is the best description of how government derives its legitimacy.