Which concept allows the government to take private property for public use?

Eminent domain is the concept that empowers the government to take private property for public use, provided that just compensation is given to the property owner. This principle is rooted in constitutional law, specifically the Fifth Amendment, which states that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation.

The rationale behind eminent domain is to allow the government to fulfill its duty to the public by developing infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and hospitals, which benefit the broader community. This legal power is essential for enabling the government to implement projects that serve the public interest, even if they necessitate the acquisition of private land.

While property rights refer to the legal rights individuals have to use and control their property, and police power pertains to the government's authority to regulate for the sake of public health, safety, and welfare, neither of these concepts directly allows for the taking of private property. Taxation involves the collection of funds by the government from individuals or businesses, which is different from the forceful acquisition of property. Hence, eminent domain is the most appropriate choice when discussing the government's authority to take private property for public purposes.