What are natural rights considered to be?

Natural rights are considered to be inherent rights that every individual possesses simply by being human. The concept of natural rights is rooted in philosophical traditions that emphasize the idea that these rights are not granted by any government or institution; rather, they are believed to be given by a higher power—often referred to as "God-given" rights. These rights are viewed as inalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away or surrendered, and they are fundamental to human dignity and equality.

This understanding is pivotal in the context of political philosophy, particularly in the works of Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, who argued that the purpose of government is to protect these natural rights, which include life, liberty, and property. The recognition of natural rights has played a significant role in shaping democratic principles and constitutions, including the United States Declaration of Independence, which refers to "unalienable Rights."

In contrast, the other choices reflect misunderstandings of natural rights. Rights granted by the government can be altered or revoked, while privileges are not inherent rights but rather conditional benefits dispensed by society or the state. Rights that can be changed by law suggest variability and a lack of inherent quality, which contradicts the very nature of natural rights as immutable and universal.