What are inalienable rights?

Inalienable rights refer to fundamental rights that are inherent to all individuals simply by virtue of being human. These rights are seen as universal and cannot be legitimately taken away or surrendered. The concept emphasizes that these rights come from natural law or ethics, rather than being granted by any governmental authority. This notion is often linked to foundational documents in political philosophy, such as the Declaration of Independence, which asserts that certain truths are self-evident and that individuals possess rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The distinction is important because it underscores the idea that individuals possess these rights regardless of their citizenship status, governmental recognition, or societal context. This is why inalienable rights are viewed as unassailable and essential for human dignity. Understanding this concept is crucial when discussing the moral and legal frameworks that underpin human rights legislation and philosophical discourse on individual freedoms.