Which principle is established by the concept of 'Consent of the Governed'?

The concept of 'Consent of the Governed' is foundational to democratic principles and affirms that a government’s legitimacy and moral authority are derived from the consent of the individuals it governs. This means that the power and authority of the government are granted by the people, who agree to be ruled or governed, typically through mechanisms such as voting and representation. The belief is that citizens should have a say in how they are governed and that government actions should reflect the will of the people.

This principle serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance, emphasizing that a government’s policy and leadership are valid only if they receive approval from the populace. It inherently rejects the idea that authority can be assumed or maintained without the support or agreement of the governed.