What is popular sovereignty?

Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of government is created by and subject to the will of the people. This concept plays a foundational role in democratic governance, emphasizing that the legitimacy of governmental power stems from the consent of the governed. In a system based on popular sovereignty, citizens have the right to participate in decision-making processes and influence legislation, reflecting their preferences and needs in governance.

This principle aligns closely with the core values of democracy where individual rights and participation are paramount. It underscores the belief that the government's power is not derived from a monarch, military, or elite, but from the collective will of the populace. By acknowledging that the government's authority is essentially a social contract with the people, popular sovereignty ensures accountability and responsiveness to the citizens it serves.