The Michigan Constitution excerpt states that government is established for the equal benefit, security and protection of the people. This best illustrates which principle?

• A. equal protection of the law
• B. popular sovereignty
• C. limited government
• D. individual liberty

Answer: (B)

Popular sovereignty is the idea that political power comes from the people and that government exists to serve them. The Michigan Constitution’s statement that government is established for the equal benefit, security, and protection of the people shows that the regime derives authority from the people and is meant to act for the common good of all citizens. It emphasizes that people grant legitimacy to government and that its purpose is to serve them. This differs from equal protection (laws applied fairly), limited government (restricting powers), or individual liberty (protecting personal rights); the focus here is on where authority comes from and the government’s purpose to benefit the people.