Key Principles of the Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence, ratified on July 4, 1776, served not only as a statement of the American colonies' intent to separate from British rule, but also articulated a set of philosophical principles regarding individual rights and government. It was largely influenced by Enlightenment thinkers and set the foundation for the development of American political ideology. Which of the following statements best reflects one of the central ideas expressed in the Declaration?