What principle establishes that government authority is derived from the consent of the governed?

The principle that establishes government authority as being derived from the consent of the governed is known as popular sovereignty. This concept emphasizes that the legitimacy of government comes from the will and consent of the people it governs, highlighting that the people have the ultimate authority over their government. This principle is foundational to democratic systems, where officials are elected and policies are determined based on the preferences of the majority, reflecting the belief that governmental power should derive from the people’s consent and support.

In contrast, checks and balances refer to the system designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful, while limited government emphasizes that governmental powers should be restricted by law, particularly concerning the rights and freedoms of individuals. Individual rights focus specifically on the inherent rights of individuals and the protection of these rights within a legal framework. Popular sovereignty is distinct because it directly addresses how government derives its power and legitimacy from the governed, making it the correct answer in this context.