[extropy-chat] # What the #$?! are rights anyway?

[Anne-Marie Taylor]

Lee Corbin <lcorbin at tsoft.com> wrote:    Amara writes

> A "right" is a moral principle defining and sanctioning a man's freedom
> of action in a social context.

Lee wrote:
  Nice definition
  
I agree with Robert and the others that "rights" better are thought of
as not existing---the concept just seems to throw a monkey-wrench
(i.e. spanner) into the discussion. The language, horribly, prevents
instead of facilitating communication.

  >>I agree, it's pointless to argue with someone when both parties are set
  >>on their own opinions.  
   
  The other side can say things like "Who should decide? Do you propose to
use force on a woman? Whose business is it?", and "what are the risks of
adding this loss of freedom to gun control, helmet-wearing, zoning,
government surveillance, and the myriads of other limitations on our
liberty? Think about those effect on our future civilization."

  So: isn't it true that by avoiding questionable terms like "rights" we
forward the discussions?

  >>I'm not sure I understand.  To avoid the issue is the best thing to do?
  >>It sounds very reasonable but then who is deciding what rights humans have?
  >>Religion plays a big part in determining what rights humans have.
  >>Doesn't it worry you that if the issues aren't confronted that some group, cult, 
  >>religion or government may, once again, come into power and dictate what are
  >>rights are?
  >>Sorry if I didn't grasp your comment Lee, maybe I misunderstood. Be patient,
  >>i'm learning:)
   
  Anna
   
   
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