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

The phrase "We the People" embodies the idea of self-government in the Constitution because it emphasizes that the authority and power of the government come directly from the citizens. This foundational concept signifies that the government is established for the purpose of serving the public and is accountable to the populace. By beginning the Constitution with these words, the framers declared that the legitimacy of governance is derived from the consent of the governed, which is a cornerstone of democratic principles.

In contrast, "We the States" suggests a focus on the states as individual entities rather than on the collective population, which could imply a more fragmented approach to government. "We the Citizens" also narrows the focus too much on citizenship rather than the broader collective implication of all people. "We the Government" implies a top-down approach, suggesting that the government holds authority over the people rather than serving them. Therefore, "We the People" is the phrase that best captures the essence of democratic self-governance as articulated in the Constitution.