Which statement best summarizes the principles of a constitutional government?

A constitutional government is fundamentally characterized by the rule of law, which means that all individuals, including those in power, are bound by the law. This principle ensures that government actions are conducted within the framework of established laws and that individual rights are protected. In such a system, the authority of the government is derived from a constitution that outlines the structure of government and limits its powers while safeguarding the rights of citizens.

This framework contrasts sharply with governance models where power is either unrestricted or derived from military force, as those approaches undermine the foundational intent of a constitutional government to promote fairness, accountability, and individual liberties. By adhering to the rule of law, a constitutional government fosters stability and a system of checks and balances, which ensures that power cannot be concentrated without legal accountability.