The Thomistic Institute
What's the Problem with Rights? | Prof. Nigel Biggar
Apr 21, 2024
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.
58:58
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Quick takeaways
- 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.
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