Question

question 12 of 20
which statement from the declaration of independence¹ best reflects the enlightenment idea of the social contract?
a. that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government.
b. that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
c. we, therefore... solemnly publish and declare, that these united colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states.
d. we hold these truths to be self - evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Explanation:

The social contract theory (from Enlightenment thinkers like Locke) holds that governments gain legitimacy through the consent of the people they govern, who agree to be ruled to protect their rights. Option B directly states governments derive power from the governed, aligning with this core idea. Other options focus on revolution (A), independence (C), or natural rights (D) rather than the foundational consent-based relationship of the social contract.

Answer:

B. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.