What is the principle of Popular Sovereignty primarily associated with?

The principle of Popular Sovereignty is fundamentally about the idea that the power and authority of a government reside with the people. This concept asserts that the legitimacy of government comes directly from the consent of the governed, and it is primarily expressed through the mechanism of voting. When citizens participate in elections, they are exercising their sovereign power to choose their representatives and influence the laws and policies that govern them. This democratic principle is a cornerstone of many political systems, particularly in the context of representative democracy, where the will of the people is meant to guide government action.

The connection to voting emphasizes that citizens have the right to decide the direction of their governance, which is a foundational aspect of democratic societies. This empowerment reflects a commitment to ensuring that the people's voices and choices are central to the political process, contrasting with notions of rule by an elite or external authority. In this way, Popular Sovereignty underscores the importance of civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.