U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyMedium
A group of students is discussing the concept of 'unalienable rights' as mentioned in the Declaration of Independence. What does the term 'unalienable' most accurately mean in this context?
- ARights that cannot be taken away or denied by any government.
- BRights that are subject to popular vote and can be changed by the majority.
- CRights that can be granted or taken away by the government.
- DRights that are specific to citizens and not to other residents.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Rights that cannot be taken away or denied by any government.
In the context of the Declaration of Independence, 'unalienable' means that these rights are inherent to human beings and cannot be legitimately taken away, denied, or transferred by any government or other authority.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Unalienable rights are considered natural rights, not subject to the shifting will of the majority.
- C. Unalienable rights are inherent and cannot be granted or taken away by governments.
- D. Unalienable rights are considered inherent to all humans, not just citizens.
Unalienable Rights
Unalienable rights are fundamental rights inherent to all human beings, which cannot be legitimately granted, taken away, or denied by any government or authority.
- Mentioned in the Declaration of Independence: Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
- Considered 'natural rights' stemming from human existence.
- Governments are established to protect these rights.
Memory trick: Unalienable: Un-removable, Un-deniable, Un-transferable rights.