What principle allows citizens to participate in the governing process?

The principle that allows citizens to participate in the governing process is popular sovereignty. This concept is foundational in democratic systems, emphasizing that the authority of government is derived from the consent of the governed. Essentially, it means that the power to govern lies with the people, and they have the right to shape their government and its policies through mechanisms such as voting, civic engagement, and public discourse. Popular sovereignty facilitates an active role for citizens in influencing government decisions, making it a cornerstone of democratic governance.

Other principles, while important in their own right, do not directly encapsulate citizen participation in the same dynamic way. For instance, judicial review pertains to the judiciary’s power to invalidate laws or executive actions that violate the Constitution, and while it ensures accountability, it does not involve direct citizen participation. Federalism refers to the division of power between national and state governments, impacting the distribution of authority rather than citizen involvement itself. Sovereignty typically describes the ultimate authority in decision-making, often within the context of states or nations, rather than focusing specifically on the role of citizens in governance.