The Primacy of Rights: The Relationship Between Citizens and States and A Discussion of the Existence of Natural Right
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2013
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Haverford College. Department of Philosophy
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eng
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Abstract
This paper attempts to draw upon the work of four key authors in the debate about the origins and justifications of individual freedom using the ongoing Syrian Revolution as in the flesh evidence for the necessity of making determinations in this field. The conflict itself leads one to wonder what the ideal relationship is between citizens and states, and how the people in societies where individual liberties are not part of the current or historical political structure should think of the rights that others take for granted. Is it philosophically sound to say that all individuals deserve a certain set of rights, and if so, what are these rights? While it is unwise to say that philosophical considerations necessitate the reproduction of a specific political structure, it is viable to say that a set of human qualities deserves to be respected and provided the opportunity to flourish. Regimes, I contend, that attempt to suppress free speech and obscure truths from the public eye do not respect the human qualities that all governments must respect.