“…the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness…” are words immortalized in the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America.

These are powerful, profound words with meaning that ought to be dear to all our citizens. Because of this power and profundity we need to carefully consider any claim to a “right.” People often speak of a right to something, but just what is a right? What is the definition of the term?

There are two principles fundamental to a legitimate understanding of the way our society uses the word “right.” First, a right exists simultaneously among people. Second, a right conveys no obligation on another. Violate either of these doctrines and you are simply not dealing with a human right. Consider an example regarding the right to travel freely. I have the right to visit family in another state, but I do not have the right to demand you pay for the trip!

The Good

Basic human rights, as recognized in our Declaration of Independence, are the foundation upon which a free society is built. Establishing and defending these rights constitutes the sole purpose, entire scope, and ultimate justification for the government of the U.S.

The Bad

There is an unmistakably clear drift away from the legitimate understanding of what comprises a right. Many good, noble, important and valuable concepts simply do not belong in the “rights” category. Education, housing and health care are three prime examples.

The Ugly

Governments have no resources of their own so any dollar “reallocated” by government has been taken from another citizen. By labeling things like education or health care as “rights” we inevitably diminish the most basic right of other citizens, that being the right to do as they will with their own property (money, if you will.) No amount of rhetoric can change the fact that if someone has the right to what they did NOT earn someone else must be denied the right to what they DID earn.

So, basically, if what you consider your “right” entails someone else bearing the cost(s) whether financially, physically or in violation of their will it is not a right. PERIOD!

Thanks for reading.