Which phrase represents the idea of self-government in the Constitution?

The phrase "We the people" embodies the concept of self-government in the Constitution by emphasizing that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. This phrase indicates that the power to govern is held by the citizens themselves, rather than being bestowed upon a king or an external authority. It signifies the foundational principle of democracy, where the government is accountable to the people it serves, and reflects the belief that the populace has the right to participate in political processes, establishing a government that is representative of their will.

This concept was revolutionary at the time of the Constitution's drafting and highlights the importance of individual rights and collective decision-making. By starting the Constitution with "We the people," it affirms that the legitimacy of the government springs from the collective agreement and empowerment of all citizens, making self-governance the cornerstone of the American political system.