Natural rights

Definition

Natural rights are the fundamental rights that every individual possesses simply by being human. These rights are inherent, universal, and not contingent on laws or beliefs of any particular culture or government, emphasizing the idea of individual freedom and autonomy. This concept was prominently advanced during the Enlightenment, particularly by thinkers who sought to challenge existing social and political norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural rights were a foundational concept in Enlightenment thought, shaping ideas about government and individual freedom.
2. Locke's assertion that the purpose of government is to protect natural rights significantly influenced democratic principles and revolutions worldwide.
3. The Declaration of Independence in the United States explicitly references natural rights, emphasizing their importance in justifying the separation from British rule.
4. Natural rights advocate for the idea that rights are not granted by governments but are inherent to all individuals, providing a basis for human dignity and equality.
5. Discussions around natural rights contributed to debates on issues like slavery, women's suffrage, and civil rights movements, showcasing their ongoing relevance.

Review Questions

• How did John Locke's views on natural rights influence the development of modern political thought?
  • John Locke's views on natural rights greatly shaped modern political thought by arguing that individuals have inherent rights to life, liberty, and property. His belief that the primary role of government is to protect these rights laid the groundwork for liberal democracy. Locke’s ideas also influenced revolutionary movements, such as the American Revolution, where concepts of natural rights were used to justify independence from oppressive governance.
• Discuss how the idea of natural rights is connected to the concept of the social contract.
  • The idea of natural rights is closely connected to the concept of the social contract because both emphasize the relationship between individuals and their government. In the social contract theory, individuals agree to form a society and abide by its rules in exchange for protection of their natural rights. This notion suggests that legitimacy of authority derives from its commitment to safeguarding these inherent freedoms rather than imposing arbitrary power.
• Evaluate the impact of natural rights philosophy on contemporary discussions surrounding civil liberties and human rights.
  • Natural rights philosophy has had a profound impact on contemporary discussions surrounding civil liberties and human rights by establishing a framework that prioritizes individual dignity and autonomy. These principles have been integral in shaping international human rights documents, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Furthermore, natural rights continue to inform debates on various social issues, driving movements aimed at ensuring that all individuals are afforded equal protection under the law and basic freedoms regardless of their background.

Related terms

John Locke: An English philosopher who argued that individuals have natural rights to life, liberty, and property, influencing political thought and the development of modern democracy.

Social Contract: A theoretical agreement in which individuals consent to form a society and accept certain moral and political obligations in exchange for protection of their natural rights.

Enlightenment: An intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority, significantly influencing political philosophy and literature.