Ideological Foundations of the Declaration of Independence

In the course of establishing a new nation, the Continental Congress passed the Declaration of Independence, which was pivotal in explaining the core grievances against Great Britain. The document reflects the philosophical underpinnings that Americans believed justified their break from British authority. One key assertion in the Declaration pertains to the concept of government deriving its legitimacy from the consent of the governed. This principle has influenced democratic thought and practice not only in the United States but globally.

Considering this context, which of the following statements most accurately represents the primary ideological foundation expressed in the Declaration of Independence?