The Discrepancy Between Rights and Privileges: Clarifying the Concepts
The concept of human rights is deeply rooted in the idea that all individuals possess inherent rights irrespective of their ethnicity, gender, or any other status. This fundamental belief underpins the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations in 1948, which outlines the basic rights and freedoms that every person should enjoy. However, the distinction between rights and privileges is often blurred, leading to confusion and misinterpretations. This article aims to clarify the concepts of rights and privileges, emphasizing the importance of understanding these differences in the context of upholding human dignity and justice.
Understanding the Concept of Rights
Human rights are generally considered to be inherent rights that belong to all individuals simply by virtue of being human. Unlike privileges, which are granted and controlled by others, rights are universal entitlements that serve to protect the dignity and freedom of every person. Rights are not subject to change based on who is in power or societal norms. Once granted, they must be defended and enforced to ensure their full enjoyment. For instance, the right to life, freedom of expression, and access to education are all rights that should be upheld by all governments and societies.
Defending and Securing Rights
The right to protect, defend, and enforce one's rights is the most vital. It is the foundation upon which all other rights stand. Without the ability to defend one's rights, those rights become meaningless. Governments and laws are mechanisms to protect and enforce these rights, but the ultimate responsibility lies with the individual. If you cannot defend your life, for example, you do not possess the right to life. This principle extends to other rights such as freedom of speech, which must be exercised with the understanding that the right to freedom of expression is not a privilege but an inalienable right.
Privileges vs. Rights: A Misunderstanding
Common misconceptions often confuse the concepts of rights and privileges. Women in America, regardless of their background, might feel that they are more privileged than entitled to the rights they claim. This misunderstanding arises from the belief that privileges are granted and controlled by others, whereas rights are inherent and should be defended and enforced by individuals. A privilege cannot be defended because it is not a fundamental right but an advantage granted under specific conditions.
For instance, while the right to vote is a universal and inalienable right, the process of voting in a democratic society might include various privileges such as access to voting stations and information. However, these privileges do not diminish the fundamental right to vote. Similarly, the right to an equal opportunity in education does not mean that education itself is a privilege. It means that every individual, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to receive an education.
The Needless Debate on Rights vs. Privileges
THe ongoing debate about whether a right is a privilege can be seen as a self-answering question. Once a right is established and recognized, it is not dependent on the actions or decisions of any other entity. For example, the UDHR clearly states that the right to life, liberty, and security of person is a universal and inalienable right. It does not change based on an individual's status or the actions of any governing body or society. Defending and enforcing these rights is essential not just for the individual but for the preservation of human dignity and justice.
By understanding the fundamental difference between rights and privileges, society can better focus on the importance of upholding human dignity and ensuring that the rights outlined in documents like the UDHR are fully respected and enforced. The inherent rights of every individual should be protected and defended, regardless of any social or political classification. This clarity helps to ensure that the principles of human rights are not misinterpreted and can be effectively implemented to promote a more just and equal society.