Consent of the governed refers to the idea that governments derive their power from the approval and agreement of the people they govern. It implies that rulers should have the consent or support of those they rule over.
Related terms
Popular Sovereignty: The principle that ultimate political power resides with the people; it emphasizes citizen participation in decision-making processes.
Democracy: A system of government where power is vested in citizens who can exercise it directly or through elected representatives.
Legitimacy: The belief or acceptance by citizens that a government has rightful authority and is worthy of obedience.