Which principle limits the powers of the government by stating it may only act within the boundaries of authority granted by the people?

Limited Government is the principle that restricts the powers of the government, ensuring that it can only operate within the scope of authority granted by the people. This concept is foundational in democratic societies, as it emphasizes that government officials and institutions have limitations placed on their power to prevent tyranny and abuse. By adhering to the principle of limited government, authorities are held accountable and must act within the framework set by laws, which reflect the will and consent of the governed.

This principle underscores the importance of a government that serves the interests of its citizens rather than dominating them. It aligns with the idea that citizens possess inherent rights and that any expansion of governmental power requires express permission from the populace. The mechanisms to enforce limited government typically include a constitution or similar document that outlines specific powers afforded to the government while safeguarding individual rights.

Other concepts like Popular Sovereignty and Consent of the Governed also relate to the idea that the authority of the government is derived from the people. However, they primarily focus on the origin of governmental power rather than the constraints placed upon that power, distinguishing them from the principle of limited government, which explicitly restricts government action. Federalism, on the other hand, refers to the division of power between national and state governments, rather than limiting the