Relation between Natural Rights and Human Rights
Relation between Natural Rights and Human Rights
Natural rights and Human rights are two concepts that are often used interchangeably and they have different origins and implications.
Natural rights are based on the idea that every individual has inherent rights that exist independently of the state or any other authority. These rights are grounded in nature or reason and can be deduced through philosophical or theological reflection.
On the other hand, human rights are a modern concept that emerged in the aftermath of World War II . They are grounded in international law and treaties and they are typically understood as universal rights that belong to all human beings by virtue of their humanity.
Despite these differences, natural rights have been a significant influence on the development of human rights. John Locke argued that individuals have a natural right to life, liberty and property and that the purpose of government is to protect these rights. He believed that when the government fails to fulfill this role, individuals have the rights to rebel and form a new government. These ideas were foundational to the American revolution and the US constitution.
Similarly, Thomas Paine argued that natural rights are universal and cannot be granted or taken away by any government. He believed that governments should exist to protect these rights and that any government that failed to do so was illegitimate.
In the 20th century, the concept of human rights gained greater prominence with adoption of the Universal Declaration by the UN in 1948.
In conclusion, Natural rights and human rights are related concepts that share a common concern for protection of individual liberty and dignity while natural rights are grounded in philosophy and theology, human rights are grounded in international law and treaties. However, the influence of natural rights can be seen in the development of the human rights movements and many of the key figures in this movements drew on the concept of natural rights in their arguments for individual liberty and limits on state power.
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