Final answer:
Self-governance on an individual level underpins the functionality of self-government at a societal level by ensuring citizens practice self-control and civic virtues, which are necessary for a democratic system to thrive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Self-governance on an individual level is crucial for the success of self-government at a societal level because it embodies the exercise of self-control, moderation, and self-reliance. As noted by George Mason in the Virginia Declaration of Rights, the preservation of liberty is contingent upon individuals adhering to virtues such as justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue. Similarly, Alexis de Tocqueville highlights the importance of democratic institutions in America, which are contingent upon the people making informed decisions on legislative, executive, and judicial matters, thereby reflecting the self-governance of the individuals.
In a democratic society, individuals contribute to governance by participating in elections, adhering to laws, practicing civic virtues, and exercising personal responsibility. Without these qualities among citizens, a system that relies on the participation and self-control of its people—like democracy—cannot function effectively. Hence, a society's ability to govern itself directly ties to individual citizens possessing and exercising self-restraint, moderation, and other civic virtues.