Natural Rights Philosophy

The Foundation of American Government

The Declaration of Independence establishes the philosophical foundation of American governance. Natural rights exist prior to government and cannot be surrendered or taken away.

Pre-Legal Moral Claims

Natural rights exist before any government, do not depend on legal recognition, cannot be granted by government, and cannot be legitimately taken by government.

Constitutional Boundaries

Government cannot grant rights, majority cannot vote away rights, officials cannot violate rights, and constitutional limits protect rights from government power.