Quote:I think any government should do everything within their power to recognize that people should have a right to life, a right to free speech, right to assemble, etc..., and that the government should do their best to enforce these standards.
WHY?
Although I have those rights and value them, I have no sense of natural entitlement.
My position is that "should" is a moral judgment. I'd argue it's in a government's best interest to accord those rights to people,as a form of government with the support of the people will survive longer.
The form of government we incorrectly call "democracy"* is just one form of government,it's not perfect,nor universally just. The "human rights" we value are cultural constructs,based on our notions of morality. They are by no means universal.
*"Democracy" within the original Greek sense is rule by referendum. ALL Voters,vote on EVERY matter of importance.Of course in a Greek city state,that meant about 25% of the population (all male) all of whom could fit into a modest sized ampitheatre.
Even when protected by a constitution, there are no such things as "inalienable rights".Any government can and does ignore such rights as circumstances dictate.