natural rights

1. Rights that people supposedly have under natural law . The Declaration of Independence of the United States lists life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as natural rights.

Example Sentences

It points to their experience with artificial hierarchies, arbitrary violations of natural rights and freedoms, and abuses of political power by a tyrannical governing authority.

From Salon

For Locke, the state of nature’s material bounty meant that governments were required to respect the “natural rights” of individuals, including the right to own private property.

From Slate

The independent Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor said at the time: "Iraqi authorities' detention and conviction of several social media content creators on vague charges that do not justify the restriction of natural rights is extremely concerning."

From BBC

Calvin Coolidge, not otherwise known for penetrating rhetoric, once observed: “Men speak of natural rights, but I challenge any one to show where in nature any rights existed or were recognized until there was established for their declaration and protection a duly promulgated body of corresponding laws.”

From Salon

But his most singular focus is on defending the natural rights of the traditionally hyper-masculine.

From Slate

Related Words

• freedom
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech
• human rights