Which principle is expressed by the concept that government derives its power from the people?

The principle that government derives its power from the people is best expressed by the concept of the social contract. This idea suggests that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of the government in exchange for the protection of their remaining rights. This exchange forms the foundation of political legitimacy and indicates that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed.

The social contract emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between the government and the citizens, highlighting that the legitimacy of governmental power is dependent on its recognition and acceptance by the people. This concept has been foundational in modern democratic thought, influencing the development of constitutions that focus on the rights of individuals and the responsibility of the government to serve the public.

In contrast, natural rights refer to the inherent rights individuals possess, such as life, liberty, and property, which exist independently of government. Federal supremacy establishes the authority of federal law over state laws but does not address the source of governmental power. Judicial review pertains to the ability of courts to invalidate laws and actions that conflict with the constitution, focusing more on the function of the judiciary than on the origin of governmental authority.