The phrase in the declaration of independence stating "that governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed" illustrates the principle of a) federalism. b) judicial review. c) equality before the law. d) the social contract theory.

Social contract theory

Social contract theory was argued by English philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke in the 17th century.  American founding fathers took a number of their ideas from the political philosophy of John Locke.  Locke's First Treatise on Civil Government debunked the idea of "divine right monarchy."  His Second Treatise on Civil Government put forth his social contract theory and design for a representative form of government.