consent of the governed

English

Noun

consent of the governed (uncountable)

  1. (government, political science, philosophy) A political theory in which a government or set of governments could only be deemed legitimate if it is supported by the people under which it exercises its political influence.

Usage notes

This phrase is often used in contrast to the "divine right of kings", which places supreme political power in a monarch chosen not by the people but directly by the will of God on Earth.

Coordinate terms

See also
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