Question

Read the following excerpt from The Declaration of Independence:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."
In a paragraph, using your understanding of the Declaration of Independence, describe how the concept of "unalienable Rights" influences the role of government as described in the document. Then, connect this concept to how the Founders pictured the government's role in promoting the general welfare of society.
In your response, use specific examples from our previous lessons to support your answer.

Answer 1

The concept of "unalienable Rights" in the Declaration of Independence fundamentally shapes the role of government by establishing that its primary purpose is to protect and ensure these inherent rights—namely Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness—bestowed upon individuals by their Creator. The Founders argued that government derives its legitimacy from the consent of the governed and must thus operate as a guardian of these rights, intervening only to prevent infringement upon them. For instance, in previous lessons, we discussed how the Founders addressed the tyranny of a monarchy that disregarded individual rights, leading to the establishment of a government intended to be accountable to the people. Furthermore, the government's role in promoting the general welfare is deeply intertwined with the protection of unalienable rights; it must create conditions favorable to individual freedom and opportunity. By fostering a society where liberties are upheld and rights are respected, the government encourages the pursuit of happiness through policies that promote education, economic stability, and justice—ensuring that all citizens have the chance to thrive. This connection underscores a vision of governance that prioritizes individual dignity and the collective well-being of society.