The Paradox of Rights: Historical Contexts and Modern Implications

This chapter explores the evolution of rights discourse from the Enlightenment to contemporary issues of inequality and labor, examining how rights initially empowered the middle class while also serving as a justification for colonial violence. It critiques the limitations of rights in the face of systemic barriers, emphasizing the importance of individual capacity to access these rights. Through historical and modern examples, the chapter highlights the complexities of rights in relation to autonomy, social justice, and the persistent marginalization of certain communities.