Which principle is most closely associated with individual rights?

The principle most closely associated with individual rights is the rule of law. This concept emphasizes that everyone, including government officials, is subject to the law. It ensures that individual rights are protected from arbitrary governance and abuses of power. Under the rule of law, legal frameworks are established that guarantee fundamental freedoms and protect individuals from the infringement of rights by others, including the state.

In contrast, majority rule focuses on decision-making based on the preferences of the majority, which can sometimes overshadow minority rights. Checks and balances are essential for maintaining the separation of powers within government branches but do not directly address individual rights. Federalism involves the distribution of power between national and state governments, which can affect rights but is more about governance structure than the protection of individual liberties. Thus, the rule of law is the foundational principle that directly upholds and safeguards individual rights within a legal system.