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

The phrase "We the People" marks the beginning of the Constitution of the United States and embodies the foundational principle of self-government. This phrase signifies that the authority and power of the government originate from the people themselves. By starting with these words, the Constitution emphasizes the concept that the government is established by and for the citizens, underlining the democratic principle that sovereignty resides with the populace.

This choice illustrates the idea that citizens have the right to participate in their governance, making it central to the American political system. The use of "People" rather than any other term like "Citizens" or "Government" reinforces the inclusive nature of the documents, suggesting that governance is dependent on the consent and will of all citizens, not just a select group. The Constitution, therefore, lays a strong foundation for the democratic ideals that characterize the United States.