What are the first three words of the Constitution that reflect the idea of self-government?

The phrase "We the People" encapsulates the fundamental principle of self-government as it emphasizes that the authority of the government derives from the consent of the governed. This opening statement signifies that the Constitution is established by the collective will and agreement of the citizens, reflecting democratic ideals and the belief that the populace is the source of political power.

By using this phrase, the framers highlighted the importance of the people’s role in the governance of the nation, suggesting that the government is accountable to the citizens it serves. This foundational concept is pivotal in American democracy, reinforcing that the nation's success depends on the involvement and representation of its people. The other options do not capture this principle as directly or effectively, focusing instead on specific functions or truths rather than the overarching idea of government by and for the people.