What are considered "natural rights" according to Enlightenment thinkers?

Prepare for the US History Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes detailed hints and explanations. Boost your confidence and ace your exam!

The concept of "natural rights" according to Enlightenment thinkers is primarily rooted in the belief that all individuals inherently possess certain fundamental rights simply by virtue of being human. These rights are universal and not granted by any government or society, thus they cannot be taken away.

The correct choice, which identifies these rights as "Life, Liberty, and Property," is prominently associated with philosopher John Locke. Locke argued that these were the essential rights that individuals have, and that the primary role of government should be to protect these rights. His ideas significantly influenced the development of democratic principles and were notably incorporated into foundational documents in the United States, such as the Declaration of Independence.

The other choices, while addressing important rights and freedoms, do not embody the core tenets of natural rights as defined by Enlightenment thinkers. Freedom of speech, assembly, and religion are crucial civil liberties that stem from the understanding of natural rights but are not the defining characteristics themselves. Similarly, the right to vote and hold office, as well as the principle of equal treatment under the law, reflect later developments in democratic theory and civil rights rather than the original conception of natural rights.

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