Moral philosophy is concerned with understanding what constitutes morality and how to live an ethically good life. It is concerned with determining the right course of action in various situations and has been used to justify many political and social movements throughout history. One area where moral philosophy has had a significant impact is on the concept of human rights. Human rights are seen as fundamental principles that every person should be entitled to without discrimination, and they have become increasingly important in international law and politics. Moral philosophers have argued that human rights can also be understood as expressions of moral equality, which means that everyone is entitled to them regardless of their background or situation. This essay will examine how moral philosophy redefines human rights as expressions of moral equality.
Human rights are often viewed as universal entitlements that apply to all people, regardless of race, gender, religion, or nationality. They include things like freedom of speech, the right to education, and protection from torture. These rights are enshrined in international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the United Nations in 1948.
Some scholars argue that these rights are not enough because they do not address the structural inequalities that exist in society.
If someone is denied access to education due to poverty or other factors beyond their control, then their human right to education has been violated. In this case, it may not be enough for us to simply give them access to education; we must also address the underlying causes of inequality.
Moral philosophers have developed a number of theories about how to understand human rights as expressions of moral equality. One of the most influential is John Rawls' theory of justice. According to Rawls, human rights are based on two principles: equal basic liberties and fair equality of opportunity. The first principle states that individuals should have equal basic freedoms, including freedom of conscience, expression, and association. The second principle states that social and economic inequalities should only be tolerated if they benefit the least advantaged members of society. By focusing on both individual autonomy and social justice, Rawls argues that human rights can be understood as expressions of moral equality.
Another approach to understanding human rights is through the lens of virtue ethics. Virtue ethics focuses on developing moral character and living a good life rather than following rules or laws. According to this view, human rights are grounded in virtuous behavior, which includes things like compassion, empathy, and respect. This approach highlights the importance of personal responsibility and self-improvement, but it also recognizes the role of institutions and structures in shaping our actions.
Critical race theory also challenges traditional views of human rights by emphasizing the role of systemic racism in creating injustice. Critical race theorists argue that human rights cannot be universal because they are always embedded within power relations. They point out that certain groups of people have historically been denied access to human rights due to their race or ethnicity, and that these injustices continue today. Therefore, we need to recognize the ways in which human rights can be used to perpetuate oppression rather than liberation.
Moral philosophy has redefined human rights as expressions of moral equality by emphasizing both individual autonomy and social justice. While traditional approaches to human rights focus on individual liberties, moral philosophers have argued for a broader view that takes into account structural inequalities and social justice.
This redefinition raises important questions about how we can implement policies and practices that promote moral equality. By recognizing the complex interplay between human rights and social structures, moral philosophy provides new insights into how we can create a more just world.
References:
Rawls, J. (1971). A Theory of Justice. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
How does moral philosophy redefine human rights as expressions of moral equality?
Moral philosophy defines human rights as expressions of moral equality because it believes that all people have intrinsic worth, value, and dignity regardless of their differences in race, gender, religion, culture, and other characteristics. It argues that everyone deserves equal respect, justice, freedom, safety, and security to pursue happiness and wellbeing. In this viewpoint, human rights are not just legal or political constructs but also ethical principles grounded in morality.