Final answer:
The fundamental principle of government necessary for the protection of individual rights is respecting the rule of law, which ensures every citizen is subject to the law and prevents the abuse of power.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fundamental principle of government necessary for the protection of individual rights is respecting the rule of law. This principle ensures that every citizen is subject to the law, including the law makers themselves. In contrast to options A, C, and D which address the mechanisms of governing, the rule of law is about the legal framework that protects individual rights and maintains order within the society. The rule of law is essential for preventing the abuse of power, ensuring equality before the law, and protecting the rights of minority groups from being overridden by majorities or arbitrary governmental actions.
Looking at other aspects mentioned, it is evident that democracies aim to protect citizens' basic rights and ensure that laws and regulations reflect the will of the majority, while also protecting individual freedoms and minorities. While majority rule is a characteristic of democratic decision-making, it alone does not guarantee the protection of individual rights without the rule of law. A common defense, while crucial for protecting the nation, is not focused on individual rights specifically. Parliamentary procedure refers to the rules that govern the conduct of business in legislative bodies and does not directly pertain to the protection of individual rights.