Natural Rights

During the Enlightenment, philosophers like John Locke argued that natural rights were fundamental and should not be taken away by governments. These ideas influenced the American Revolution, as colonists believed they had the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, leading to the Declaration of Independence. At the time, these concepts responded to the problem of oppressive rulers and the lack of personal freedoms. Today, natural rights still matter because they form the basis of many laws that protect individuals from unfair treatment. For example, if someone speaks out against a law they believe is unjust, they are exercising their natural right to free speech, which is essential for maintaining a just and fair society.