The phrase ‘the consent of the governed’ has long been a pivotal concept in discussions on government legitimacy and citizens’ rights. Its roots can be traced back to the political theory of English philosopher John Locke, who first articulated this idea in his 1689 work ‘Two Treatises of Government’. Locke’s argument was that legitimate political authority is derived from the consent of the governed, a social contract which entrusts rulers with power on the condition that they protect the natural rights of life, liberty, and property. If rulers fail to uphold their end of the social contract, citizens have the right to withdraw their consent and, if necessary, replace the government.
This concept gained further prominence during the Enlightenment era and played a significant role in the American Revolution and the drafting of the United States Declaration of Independence. In the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson famously writes, “Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” This assertion reflects the influence of Locke’s ideas and encapsulates the principle that the government’s legitimacy depends on the approval and participation of the people it governs.
The cornerstone principle of democracy is that governments are instituted with the consent of the governed, implying that the power they wield is delegated by the citizens themselves. However, for this consent to be meaningful, it must be informed and freely given. This is where the power of the electorate comes into play. Our duty extends beyond merely casting a ballot to actively engaging with the issues and candidates at hand. This active participation is what empowers us and shapes the government to reflect our values and aspirations.
While the consent of the governed underscores the importance of an engaged electorate, our current electoral system often falls short of facilitating this ideal. One potential reform that could enhance the democratic process is ranked choice voting (RCV). RCV offers greater voter choice, encourages candidates to appeal to a broader spectrum of voters, and reduces the likelihood of divisive, winner-takes-all outcomes. Another crucial reform is lowering barriers to ballot access for candidates from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations. By doing so, we can foster a more robust marketplace of ideas and ensure that voters have a wider array of candidates to choose from, reflecting the diversity of our society and strengthening our democracy.
As we exercise our right to vote, let’s also consider the potential of reforms to strengthen our democracy. The phrase ‘the consent of the governed’ is a reminder of our duty to be informed and engaged participants in the democratic process. By implementing reforms such as ranked choice voting and lowering barriers to ballot access, we can unlock the full potential of our democracy. These reforms hold the promise to empower voters, enhance political competition, and build a more vibrant and responsive democracy. As you head to the polls today, remember that your vote is not only a declaration of consent but also a call for a more equitable and inclusive electoral process. It’s a step towards a brighter, more democratic future.