Chapter 13: World Politics: Human Rights

Question 1

Paradox of human rights

Answer 1

The state is both part of the problem and the solution
Human Rights offer protection against abuses of power, yet it seems that the protection has to be guaranteed by the very agent against which is intended to protect

Question 2

What are rights?

Answer 2

Moral or legal entitlement to have or obtain something or to act in a certain way
Enforceable claims against someone (or against an institution)

Question 3

What do rights protect?

Answer 3

Choices (options): ties closely with the notion of autonomy

Interests: furthers the interest of the rights holder

Question 4

Purpose of human rights

Answer 4

Provides standard for evaluating the behavior of states and other powerful political actors with regard to vital interests of individuals or groups

Question 5

Human rights assumes the existence of what complex institutional structures

Answer 5

Developed economies
Functioning states
Flexible documents and its contents changes w/ changes in political and economic capabilities/threats

Question 6

Agency

Answer 6

Human rights protect crucial aspects of agency

To be an agent means being capable of having a life

Question 7

Aspects of Agency

Answer 7

Not to be dominated
Having a real or feasible choice
Being able to pursue your own direction in life
Having basic material resources require to pursue one’s direction in life (security from harm, sufficient shelter, food, health, and other basic rights, and access to some kind of culture (identity))
Autonomy