U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyEasy
A group of students is studying the foundational principles of American democracy. They learn that the government's power comes from the consent of the governed. Which of the following terms best describes this principle?
- AEminent Domain
- BDue Process
- CPopular Sovereignty
- DJudicial Review
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Popular Sovereignty
Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives, who are the source of all political power.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Eminent domain is the right of a government to take private property for public use.
- B. Due process ensures fair treatment through the normal judicial system.
- D. Judicial review is the power of courts to determine if a law is constitutional.
Popular Sovereignty
The principle that the authority of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives, who are the source of all political power.
- Government's power comes from the people.
- People give consent to be governed.
- Expressed through voting and elections.
Memory trick: The People's Voice is the Government's Choice.