What does 'popular sovereignty' refer to?

'Popular sovereignty' is a foundational principle in political theory, asserting that the legitimacy and authority of a government arise directly from the consent of the governed. This means that the power of the state is dependent upon the will and approval of the people, typically expressed through democratic means like voting and participatory governance.

This concept emphasizes that citizens have the ultimate authority in determining how they are governed, which links to democratic ideals and the belief in individual rights and freedoms. By establishing that the government operates with the consent of its people, it promotes accountability and responsiveness to the needs and desires of the populace. This contrasts sharply with authoritarian regimes, where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or elite group without the input or agreement of the general population.

The other options depict different concepts that do not align with the definition of popular sovereignty. For example, the idea of government authority derived from international law or a single leader directly contradicts the principles of a government that is accountable to its citizens. Similarly, advocating for limited political engagement runs counter to the core tenet of popular sovereignty, which urges broad participation in the political process.