What's the Problem with Rights? | Prof. Nigel Biggar
Apr 21, 2024
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Prof. Nigel Biggar discusses the limitations and criticisms of natural rights, the historical evolution of private property rights, the moral implications of owners withholding surplus, Burke's critique of the French Revolution's reliance on natural rights, and the interpretation of natural law and moral obligations from different perspectives.
Critics like David Ritchie question the abstract nature and absoluteness of natural rights, advocating alignment with social good and specific circumstances.
Distinguishing between moral claims and legal rights is crucial in defining rights to prevent confusion and contradictions.
Deep dives
Natural Rights Criticism Tradition
Criticism of natural rights talk spans from the late 18th century to the current era. This tradition highlights skepticism towards the concept of natural rights, starting with critiques from Edmund Burke and Jeremy Bentham. Prominent philosophers, like Immanuel Kantian, have also weighed in, shaping a consistent, critical view of natural rights.
Critique of Abstract Nature of Natural Rights
David Ritchie, a late 19th-century Scottish moral philosopher, questions the abstract nature of natural rights. He criticizes the absolute and indefinite quality of natural rights, stressing the need to consider social good and specific circumstances in determining rights. Ritchie argues that natural rights must align with moral justification and social convenience to avoid chaos or misunderstanding.
Confusion Between Moral Claims and Legal Rights
Ritchie emphasizes the confusion that arises when moral claims are equated with legal rights within natural rights discourse. He cautions against blending moral duties and legal entitlements, as it can lead to contradictions and misinterpretations. By highlighting this distinction, Ritchie underscores the importance of clarity and specificity in defining rights.
Philosophical Debates on Liberty and Human Nature
The discussion delves into contrasting views on liberty and rights, ranging from Hobbes' absolute liberty to Scholastic thinkers' emphasis on natural law and moral constraints. The interaction between concepts of human nature, natural law, and social order elucidates the complexity inherent in defining and applying natural rights. Ritchie's critiques provide a nuanced perspective on navigating these philosophical debates.