What concept asserts that ethnic groups have the right to govern themselves as they see fit within a larger state?

What concept asserts that ethnic groups have the right to govern themselves as they see fit within a larger state?

• A. Sovereignty
• B. Nationality
• C. Self Determination
• D. Apartheid

Answer: (C)

Self-determination is the principle that ethnic groups have the right to determine their own political status and to govern themselves within a larger state. It recognizes that a distinct people may seek forms of self-rule—ranging from local autonomy to full independence—so they can shape their political and cultural future. This fits the question because it directly links the right to govern oneself to a group within a larger state, rather than focusing on the state’s own sovereignty, on identity alone (nationality), or on policies of segregation like apartheid.

Self-determination is the principle that ethnic groups have the right to determine their own political status and to govern themselves within a larger state. It recognizes that a distinct people may seek forms of self-rule—ranging from local autonomy to full independence—so they can shape their political and cultural future. This fits the question because it directly links the right to govern oneself to a group within a larger state, rather than focusing on the state’s own sovereignty, on identity alone (nationality), or on policies of segregation like apartheid.