The Importance of Individual Rights in Modern Society

Throughout history, the concept of individual rights has evolved significantly, reflecting the changing needs and values of human societies. In today's world, where technology and governance continue to shape our lives, the significance of individual rights remains undiminished.

Understanding Individual Rights

Individual rights are the physical embodiment of our free will, bestowed upon us by a higher power as per many religious and philosophical beliefs. They are crucial for the protection of individual liberties, the promotion of fairness, and the establishment of a just society. As Meher Baba once eloquently stated, 'True knowledge is that knowledge which makes man after Self-Realization or union with God assert that his real Self is in everything and everybody.' This belief in the interconnectedness of all beings underscores the importance of protecting individual rights as a collective endeavor.

The Relic of Traditional Liberalism

In the traditional enlightenment liberal sense, in a hypothetical pre-government world, individuals would be radically free. However, the real world poses inherent dangers that necessitate the establishment of a government to ensure safety and order. Governments often create a code that restricts their power to safeguard certain fundamental freedoms that we wish to retain. For instance, while some may argue that the freedom to murder as one pleases is absolute, most societies recognize that this absolute freedom is untenable and counterproductive. Instead, they seek to uphold the right to speak one's mind freely, a concept that Meher Baba also highlighted when he said, 'Light can penetrate any amount of darkness but no amount of darkness can penetrate light.'

The Role of Government in Modern Times

As technology has advanced, the traditional trade-off between individual liberties and government power is less effective. In the past, the argument for government was that it exchanged some freedoms for greater security. However, in a world where large-scale organization can lead to significant benefits in areas such as healthcare and food security, the role of government shifts. Democratic governments, which are 'for and by the people,' are uniquely positioned to enable these new opportunities. In this context, rights become less about trade-offs and more about upholding essential freedoms that are necessary for a functioning society.

The Challenges of Defining Rights in Modernity

Understanding and properly utilizing rights is a complex task, especially when compared to the traditional view of rights which has matured over hundreds of years and is deeply embedded in American society. However, in contemporary times, rights must be redefined and reinterpreted to accommodate the modern landscape. The latter form of rights, which focuses on the public goods and services provided by the government, is more challenging to grasp but equally essential.

For example, the right to access healthcare and food security is not just a matter of individual freedom but a collective responsibility of the government. These rights are no longer simply about personal liberties but about ensuring that all members of society have the basic needs met, fostering a more equitable and just society.

Conclusion

The importance of individual rights cannot be overstated. They are the bedrock upon which a just and fair society is built. In an era where technology and governance are rapidly evolving, it is crucial to recognize the changing nature of rights and their role in modern society. By understanding and upholding these rights, we can create a world where individual freedom and collective responsibility coexist harmoniously.