In the context of government authority, what does popular sovereignty emphasize?

Popular sovereignty is a foundational principle in democratic governance that underscores the idea that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. This concept emphasizes that the people hold ultimate power over the government, meaning they have the right to grant authority to their leaders and also the power to withdraw that authority if the government does not act in their interests or fails to represent their will.

This principle is integral to democratic societies as it reinforces the notion that government exists to serve the people, rather than the people existing to serve the government. It establishes a reciprocal relationship between the government and its citizens, encouraging political participation and accountability.

In contrast, the other options reflect ideas that either misrepresent or contradict the fundamental nature of popular sovereignty. A government that operates independently from the will of the people would not align with the principles of democracy. Suggesting that authority is vested in a ruling elite negates the concept of equal power among all citizens, and a focus on controlling citizen behavior prioritizes governmental authority over individual freedoms, which is contrary to the ideals of popular involvement and influence in governance.