The concept of limited government is most directly associated with which of the following?

The idea of limited government fundamentally revolves around the principle that government powers are restricted to protect individual rights and freedoms. This concept is rooted in political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the government's authority does not infringe upon the personal liberties of individuals. In a system based on limited government, there is a clear delineation of powers, safeguarding citizens from potential tyranny or the overreach of authority.

This stands in contrast to the other options, which imply expansive governmental control. For instance, government control of private property suggests an expansion of power that limits individual property rights, while full government control over all aspects of life negates the very notion of limited authority. Similarly, the assumption of unlimited powers by elected officials directly contradicts the principles of a limited government, as it implies a complete absence of constraints on governmental authority. In summary, the essence of a limited government is accurately represented by restrictions on power to preserve the rights of individuals, making this choice the correct one.