Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

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What is popular sovereignty?

Rule by the wealthy
Rule by the people
Rule by a monarch
Rule by the judiciary

The correct answer is: Rule by the people

Popular sovereignty is a fundamental principle in democratic theory that emphasizes the authority and power of the people in the governance of a state. This concept suggests that the legitimacy of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. In essence, it underscores the idea that the people have the ultimate right to determine how they are ruled and to influence legislation and policy through their participation, typically expressed through voting. The essence of popular sovereignty is reflected in practices such as elections, where citizens exercise their rights to select their representatives and express their views on key issues. It is a cornerstone of modern democratic societies, ensuring that government actions are reflective of the will of the majority while protecting the rights of minorities. In this context, other options like rule by the wealthy or a monarch do not align with the principles of popular sovereignty, as they concentrate power in the hands of a few rather than distributing it among the people. Similarly, rule by the judiciary suggests a legal authority that does not derive power directly from the populace, but rather from laws and decisions made by judges. Thus, the definition of popular sovereignty clearly supports the idea that power originates with the people.