The American Idea of Democracy

AS STATED IN THE OREGON CONSTITUTION:

We declare that all [human beings], when they form a social compact are equal in right: that all power is inherent in the people, and all free governments are founded on their authority, and instituted for their peace, safety, and happiness; and they have at all times a right to alter, reform, or abolish the government in such manner as they may think proper.

-- The Constitution of Oregon, Article I, Section 1

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AS STATED IN THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE:

Governments deriv[e] their just powers from the consent of the governed ... [When a Government loses that consent], it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.