Human Rights and Social Justice Flashcards
What are human rights?
A right believed to belong to every person, e.g., the right to life, freedom of speech
Human rights are universal and often codified in international treaties.
Define social justice.
The view that all people should have the same rights and opportunities in society
It emphasizes equality and fairness in social, economic, and political arenas.
What is the Golden Rule in Christian beliefs?
‘To do to others as you would have them do to you’
This principle encourages empathy and reciprocal kindness.
What is Adl in Islam?
Justice
It is one of the key principles in Islamic teachings.
What does the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948) include?
Basic rights and freedoms like the right to life, fair trial, free speech, food, shelter, education, healthcare, and work
It serves as a foundational document for human rights globally.
What is the UK Human Rights Act (1998)?
An act that incorporates the rights from the UN Declaration of Human Rights into UK law
It supersedes previous acts promoting equality and tolerance.
What is the significance of the Magna Carta (1215)?
First statement of rights in Britain
It laid the groundwork for modern democracy and legal rights.
Define tolerance.
Accepting others’ differences and living in harmony with them
Tolerance is essential for social cohesion and peace.
What is justice according to many religions?
People should be treated equally and fairly according to a just law
Justice is a central theme in most religious teachings.
What does compassion mean in the context of social justice?
Loving kindness - helping because there is a need to help
Compassion drives charitable actions and social support.
What is the definition of prejudice?
Unfairly judging someone before the facts are known
Prejudice can lead to discrimination and social injustice.
What is discrimination?
To act against someone based on sex, race, religion, etc.
Discrimination can manifest in various forms, such as employment or housing.
What is positive discrimination?
Treating people more favourably because they have been discriminated against in the past
It aims to level the playing field for disadvantaged groups.
What is homophobia?
Discrimination or prejudice against homosexual people
This can lead to social exclusion and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
What does the term ‘wealth inequality’ refer to?
The gap between the rich and the poor in society
It highlights disparities in income and resources.
How do Christians view wealth?
Wealth is not wrong in itself; it depends on how it is used
Christians are encouraged to use wealth for good and support those in need.
What is Zakat in Islam?
A form of almsgiving, typically 2.5% of surplus income
It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and emphasizes charity.
Define exploitation.
Taking advantage of someone
Exploitation can occur in various contexts, including labor and economic systems.
What is people-trafficking?
Illegally transporting people for forced labor or sexual exploitation
It is a serious violation of human rights.
What are some causes of prejudice?
- Lack of education
- Upbringing
- Media influence
- Fear
- Ignorance
- Bad experiences
Understanding these causes can help combat prejudice.
Who is responsible for helping the poor?
- The Government
- The Poor
- Charities
- Religions
Each entity has a role in addressing poverty and supporting those in need.
What does the term ‘usury’ refer to?
Lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest
It can lead to cycles of debt and financial exploitation.
What is homophobia?
Discrimination or prejudice against homosexual people
This term encompasses negative attitudes and behaviors towards individuals based on their sexual orientation.
Define gender prejudice.
Prejudice or discrimination because of gender
This can manifest in various forms, including workplace discrimination and societal biases.
What is racism?
Prejudice and discrimination based on ethnic group, believing skin colour determines ability
Racism can lead to systemic inequality and social injustice.
What is disability prejudice?
Occurs in the workplace or when someone is denied access to services
This form of discrimination can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
What do Quaker Christians believe about homosexuality?
All are made in the ‘image of God’; it is natural for that person to be gay
The quality of the relationship is emphasized over sexual orientation.
What is the modern view of the Church of England regarding gender roles?
Women can be leaders; all are equal and made in God’s image
This reflects a progressive stance on gender equality within the church.
How does Christianity view racial equality?
Everyone is made in the ‘image of God’; all races are equal
Jesus taught to ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ and emphasized caring for people from other races.
What did St. Paul teach about equality in Galatians?
There is no Greek or Jew, slave or free, but all are one in Christ Jesus
This teaching reinforces the notion of unity and equality among believers.
What is the traditional Roman Catholic view on homosexual acts?
Homosexual acts are wrong, but gay people should not be treated badly
This view is based on interpretations of Natural Moral Law and traditional teachings.
What roles do Roman Catholics traditionally assign to women?
Women are to bring up children and run the home
This reflects a traditional view of gender roles within the church.
True or False: Christianity teaches that all forms of discrimination are wrong.
True
The teachings emphasize the inherent dignity of every individual.
Fill in the blank: Jesus taught his followers to ‘______ one another’.
love
This commandment is central to Christian ethics and interpersonal relationships.
Which biblical figure is mentioned as an important female leader in the Early Church?
Phoebe
Her commendation by Paul highlights women’s roles in the early Christian community.
