Government by consent

Definition

Government by consent refers to the political principle that a government's legitimacy and authority are derived from the approval and agreement of the people it governs. This concept emphasizes the idea that rulers must have the consent of the governed to maintain power, promoting the belief in individual rights and democratic governance. It serves as a foundation for modern democratic systems, suggesting that citizens have the right to choose their leaders and influence laws.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' was a pivotal work that promoted the idea of government by consent, advocating for independence from British rule based on this principle.
2. Paine argued that legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed and that citizens have the right to reject any form of tyranny.
3. This concept directly influenced the Declaration of Independence, which emphasized that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.
4. Government by consent challenged traditional views of monarchy, asserting that power should not be inherited but granted by the people.
5. The emphasis on government by consent laid the groundwork for democratic movements and inspired future revolutions around the world.

Review Questions

• How does Thomas Paine's argument in 'Common Sense' illustrate the concept of government by consent?
  • In 'Common Sense', Thomas Paine strongly advocates for government by consent by arguing that legitimate governance must come from the will of the people. He contends that a government devoid of popular approval is unjust and oppressive. By calling for independence from British rule, Paine emphasizes that citizens have not only the right but also the responsibility to establish a government that aligns with their interests and values.
• Discuss how the principles of natural rights relate to the idea of government by consent as presented in 'Common Sense'.
  • The principles of natural rights are central to understanding government by consent in 'Common Sense'. Paine argues that individuals possess inherent rights to life, liberty, and property, which must be protected by any government. This protection can only be guaranteed if citizens grant their consent to a governing body that acknowledges and upholds these rights. Thus, natural rights reinforce the necessity for a government that derives its authority from the people's agreement.
• Evaluate how Paine's views on government by consent shaped American political thought and contributed to later democratic ideals.
  • Paine's views on government by consent significantly influenced American political thought by challenging existing monarchical systems and advocating for a government accountable to its citizens. His arguments laid a philosophical foundation for key documents such as the Declaration of Independence and later constitutional frameworks. The embrace of government by consent promoted broader democratic ideals, inspiring movements for suffrage, civil rights, and global democratization efforts, highlighting its lasting impact on political systems worldwide.

Related terms

Social Contract: A theoretical agreement in which individuals give up certain freedoms in exchange for the protection of their rights by a governing authority.

Natural Rights: The rights inherent to all human beings, including life, liberty, and property, which are fundamental to the idea of government by consent.

Popular Sovereignty: The principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, typically expressed through their elected representatives.