Foundational Ideas in the Declaration of Independence

During the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence articulated the philosophical foundation for the colonies' quest for independence from British rule. One key principle highlighted in this document was the idea of government deriving its power from the consent of the governed. This democratic principle emphasizes that a legitimate government must have the approval of its citizens in order to be just and authoritative.

According to the Declaration, this principle is anchored in the belief that individuals have certain unalienable rights that must be protected by the government. When a government fails to protect these rights, the people have the right to alter or abolish it. This concept has had profound implications for the development of democratic governance and civil rights in the United States.

Based on this context, which statement best summarizes a foundational idea emphasized in the Declaration of Independence?