What system of government is defined as rule by the people?

The system of government defined as rule by the people is a democracy. In a democracy, the authority of the government is derived from the consent and participation of the governed. This means that citizens have the power to make decisions about their leadership and policies, typically through voting in elections. The principles of democracy include individual rights, freedom of expression, and equal representation, allowing for a government that reflects the will of its people.

This concept contrasts with other forms of government, such as a monarchy, where power is held by a singular figure (like a king or queen) often based on hereditary succession, or a dictatorship, where a single leader holds significant power often without the consent of the governed. An oligarchy, on the other hand, is controlled by a small group of individuals, and does not allow for the broader participation of the populace in governance. Each of these alternatives does not embody the democratic principle of rule by the people, making democracy the correct answer in this context.