What does popular sovereignty mean?

Popular sovereignty refers to the principle that the authority of a government is derived from the consent of the governed, meaning that the power and legitimacy of the government come from the will of the people. This concept is foundational to democratic systems, where citizens have the right to participate in decision-making processes, either directly or through elected representatives. It emphasizes the role of the populace in determining the framework and functioning of their government, underscoring that government exists to serve the interests and will of its people.

In contrast, authority granted by divine right suggests a belief that a ruler's power comes from a higher power, which is not reflective of popular will. Control of the state by a military leader implies an authoritarian or dictatorial regime, where power is seized and maintained through force rather than consent. Similarly, legislative power held by a monarch indicates a system where a single person has absolute authority, again not aligning with the concept of government by the people. The emphasis on consent in popular sovereignty is what distinguishes it as a critical democratic principle.