Reading Evaluation Questions
Robert Nozick believed that liberty and justice was based on the natural rights of an individual. Natural rights are rights that an individual possesses, and they cannot be interfered with; it would be a violation of the rights. Individuals possess natural rights because of their existence; they were not allocated by the authority. For instance, liberty, life and happiness. Philosophers like Locke, believed that human beings are entitled to preserve their lives, which is a natural right. He believed that these rights are assured by God and nature. Nozick argued that human beings are not permitted to exchange their natural rights for favours. On the negative side, natural rights do not leave enough room for the government because of the self-ownership aspect.
- H. Green’s theory was based on moral freedom. His version of liberty and justice leaned towards positivity. However, he divided the rights into positive and negative freedom. He believed that it is mandatory for human beings to have free will in most aspects of their lives. Positive freedom involves surpassing one’s expectations and potential. Negative freedom involves avoidance of any form of interference from outside forces; hence the ultimate satisfaction of an individual’s desires. Green’s theory was focussed on morals and ethics, as opposed to law.
I resonate more to T.H. Green’s theory as opposed to Nozick’s approach. Green’s point of view is easier to relate to because human beings face morality issues every day. Additionally, the exclusion of the state in natural rights may result negatively for the individuals. The purpose of the state is checks and balances; hence it is vital that these rights are regulated. I agree that human beings should preserve their lives and that natural rights are assured by God, but there should be limits to exercising these rights to have a peaceful state.