Natural rights <-> Utilitarian?

Question

Do men and women have natural rights?

Answer 1

Every human being has natural rights. Utilitarianism doesn't take that into account. It's much more pragmatic, and also tends to lead to authoritarianism. Most socialist states are technocratic and utilitarian.

Answer 2

Yes and no.

In the utilitarian sense of the word, yes. People have certain behaviors and liberties that are inherent in their existence. The natural right to believe what they want being the most obvious.

In the legal sense of the word, no. Legally, a right is something that is protected against govt interference or infringement. Absent specific protections, people can choose (by vote or by apathy) to give up their "natural rights" and allow govt regulation of conduct.

However, as a matter of law, some rights are protected from even voluntary surrender. In the US, slavery is an example. Even with consent, one person cannot become the property of another.

Answer 3

Not sure what that "Natural rights" means.

There are rights that come to us by virtue of our physiogy. For instance, it is extremely difficult to control or monitor what another thinks.

By-and-large, you have the right to think whatever you want to think...

However, even that isn't perfect (mind control, brain scanning, etc).

Answer 4

All people have human rights.