Governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, that when ever any form of government becomes desctructive of theseends it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it
and to institute new government.
Step 1: Understanding the Quote
This quote is from the Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson in 1776. It states that governments are created by the people and derive their authority from the consent of the governed. It also asserts that when a government becomes destructive to the rights and freedoms of the people, it is the right of the people to change or overthrow it.
Step 2: Historical Context
The Declaration of Independence was written during the American Revolution when the thirteen American colonies sought independence from British rule. This document outlined the reasons for their desire for independence and established the principles upon which the United States was founded.
Step 3: Government Derived from the Consent of the Governed
The quote emphasizes that governments only have legitimate power when they are supported by the consent of the people. It implies that the authority of a government is not inherent, but rather granted by the people it governs.
Step 4: Right to Alter or Abolish Government
According to the quote, if a form of government becomes destructive to the ends it is meant to serve, such as protecting the rights and well-being of its citizens, the people have the right to alter or abolish that government. This reflects the idea that governments exist to serve the people and their interests, and when they fail in that duty, the people have the right to seek change.
Step 5: Implications and Application
This quote has had a significant impact on political philosophy and has influenced movements for democracy and self-determination around the world. It supports the idea that governments should be accountable to the people and that citizens have the right to participate in the political process to bring about change when necessary.
Overall, this quote underscores the importance of a government's legitimacy and its responsibility to protect the rights and interests of its citizens.
The statement you mentioned is part of the opening lines of the United States Declaration of Independence. It expresses the idea that governments exist to serve the people and derive their authority from the consent of the governed. When a government no longer fulfills its purpose and infringes upon the rights of the people, it is the right of the individuals to change or overthrow that government.
This principle reflects the concept of popular sovereignty, which asserts that ultimate power and authority reside with the people. If a government fails to protect the rights and liberties of its citizens or becomes oppressive, the people have the right to take action to rectify the situation.
It is important to note that altering or abolishing a government should be seen as a last resort, reserved for extreme circumstances. The Declaration of Independence itself outlines how the American colonies determined that such extreme measures were necessary in their struggle against British rule.