Popular Sovereignty

Definition

Popular sovereignty is a principle stating that all government power comes from the people. The government exists only with consent from its citizens who are the source of all authority.

Related terms

Democracy: A system of government where power lies with the people who rule either directly or through elected representatives – just like how songs at a dance might be chosen by majority vote.

Constitutionalism: This term refers to adherence to a constitution which limits powers of government officials – similar to rules set by school administration for what can or cannot happen at the dance.

Consent of Governed: This phrase means that citizens agree on who their rulers will be – much like students agreeing on who should serve on their dance committee.