What is the significance of the term "sovereignty lies with the people" in the context of Enlightenment thought?

The phrase "sovereignty lies with the people" is significant in the context of Enlightenment thought as it embodies the core democratic ideals that emerged during this intellectual movement. Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau championed the notion that legitimate government derives its authority from the consent of the governed. This represents a radical departure from traditional notions of power being held by monarchs or aristocrats.

By asserting that the sovereignty rests with the people, it underscores the belief that individuals should have the right to participate in government and make decisions affecting their lives, thus advocating for political equality and popular sovereignty. This concept laid the groundwork for modern democratic systems, influencing revolutions and the development of constitutional governments in the late 18th century, especially in the American context.

The emphasis on popular sovereignty directly countered the idea of power being vested in a single ruler or a privileged class, which explains why the other choices, such as the importance of monarchy or support for aristocratic rule, do not align with the Enlightenment's focus on individual rights and collective governance.