The idea of "unalienable Rights" in the Declaration of Independence fundamentally defines the government's role by asserting that its main purpose is to protect and uphold these inherent rights—specifically Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness—given to individuals by their Creator. The Founders maintained that government gains its legitimacy from the consent of the governed and must function as a protector of these rights, intervening only to prevent their violation. As discussed in earlier lessons, the Founders confronted the tyranny of a monarchy that ignored individual rights, leading to the creation of a government accountable to the people. Moreover, the government’s responsibility to promote the general welfare is closely linked to safeguarding unalienable rights; it must cultivate conditions that enhance individual freedom and opportunity. By nurturing a society where liberties are honored and rights are safeguarded, the government facilitates the pursuit of happiness through initiatives that support education, economic stability, and justice—ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to prosper. This relationship highlights a vision of governance that emphasizes individual dignity alongside the common good of society.
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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.
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