(1) 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. (2) That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed.
(3) That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new Government….
—the Declaration of Independence, 1776
What concept is best described by the second sentence?
A.
natural rights
B.
separation of powers
C.
bicameralism
D.
social compact
The Declaration of Independence outlined a relationship between individuals and the government but did not detail the power and control of that government.
