Where Do Human Rights Come From?

Commentary On International Human Rights Day it is timely to consider the origins and foundation of human rights. Are human rights a political construct that reflects the changing moral and ethical foundations of societies today, or are they bestowed by the Creator?   The July 4, 1776, U.S. Declaration of Independence is known as the first formal statement by a nation’s people asserting their rights, including to choose their own government.  The Preamble includes the statement: “That all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” ...