What is an example of popular sovereignty? Popular sovereignty is a principle that asserts that the power of government comes from the people. It is a cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring that the will of the majority is respected and that the government is accountable to its citizens. One prominent example of popular sovereignty in action is the referendums held in Scotland in 2014 and 2020.
The Scottish independence referendum in 2014 was a clear demonstration of popular sovereignty. Scotland, a constituent country of the United Kingdom, held a vote to determine whether it should become an independent nation. The campaign was highly contentious, with both pro-independence and unionist groups vying for the support of the Scottish electorate. The referendum was a direct expression of the people’s right to decide their own destiny, a fundamental aspect of popular sovereignty.
The 2014 referendum resulted in a narrow defeat for the pro-independence campaign, with 55% of voters choosing to remain part of the UK. However, the fact that such a significant portion of the population supported independence was a testament to the strength of popular sovereignty in Scotland. It demonstrated that the people had the power to influence the course of their nation’s history and that their voices could be heard.
In 2020, Scotland once again became the focal point of popular sovereignty when the Scottish National Party (SNP) called for another independence referendum in the wake of the UK’s decision to leave the European Union (Brexit). This second referendum was a direct response to the perceived negative impact of Brexit on Scotland’s economy and political interests. The SNP argued that Scotland’s future was best served as an independent nation, and the decision to hold the referendum was a clear assertion of popular sovereignty.
The 2020 Scottish independence referendum saw a more significant majority in favor of independence, with 48.1% of voters supporting the SNP’s campaign. While the result did not meet the SNP’s target of 60%, it did highlight the ongoing debate over Scotland’s constitutional future and the importance of popular sovereignty in shaping the nation’s destiny.
These examples of popular sovereignty in Scotland underscore the power of the people to shape their own governance. They demonstrate that, in a democratic society, the government’s legitimacy and authority are derived from the consent of the governed. By allowing the people to have a direct say in significant political decisions, such as independence referendums, popular sovereignty ensures that the government remains accountable and responsive to the needs and desires of its citizens.
In conclusion, the Scottish independence referendums of 2014 and 2020 are excellent examples of popular sovereignty in action. They showcase the power of the people to influence their nation’s future and the importance of respecting the will of the majority. As democratic principles continue to evolve, the principle of popular sovereignty remains a vital component of any just and fair society.
