What is the principle behind popular sovereignty?

The principle behind popular sovereignty centers on the idea that the authority and legitimacy of a government are derived from the consent and will of the people it governs. This concept underscores that the power to govern does not reside with a select few or an elite class, nor does it stem solely from a central authority or through rights granted by the government. Instead, it is the collective decision-making and participation of the citizenry that form the basis for governmental power and policies. This principle is foundational in democratic societies, emphasizing that lawful authority must reflect the interests and desires of the population, thereby ensuring government accountability and responsiveness.