What is meant by "limited government" in U.S. constitutional principles?

The concept of "limited government" in U.S. constitutional principles refers to the idea that the powers of government are restricted by law, ensuring that individual freedoms are protected from potential government overreach. This principle is foundational to the Constitution and reflects the Framers' intent to prevent the concentration of power in any single branch of government or individual, thereby safeguarding civil liberties.

This limitation is often established through various mechanisms, such as the Constitution itself, which outlines specific powers granted to the federal government while reserving other powers for the states and the people. The Bill of Rights further delineates the rights of individuals, ensuring that the government cannot infringe upon these rights. By adhering to the principle of limited government, authority is exercised within the bounds of established law, promoting justice, accountability, and the rule of law.

In contrast, other options suggest ideas that do not align with this principle: unrestricted power contradicts the essence of limiting government authority; restricting government to state boundaries doesn't accurately reflect its operation, which encompasses federal and state jurisdictions; and mandating welfare services does not relate to the concept of limitations on governmental powers. Each of these alternatives fails to capture the critical notion of checks and balances inherent in a limited government system.