What is a right?

A right is fundamentally understood as a privilege or entitlement that individuals possess, often in relation to their citizenship. This definition emphasizes that rights are inherent to individuals, allowing them to engage in activities and make choices without interference from others or the government. Rights are often enshrined in laws and constitutions, establishing a framework for what individuals can expect regarding their freedom, equality, and justice within a society.

The context of citizenship is particularly important because rights are typically associated with being a member of a political community, where individuals are guaranteed certain protections and freedoms. This contrasts with responsibilities, which refer to duties that citizens are expected to uphold, and obligations, which are mandates of law that involve actions required from individuals. The notion of restrictions on personal freedom pertains to external limitations placed on individuals, which does not align with the definition of a right as it implies the existence of freedoms rather than limitations.