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Full Idea
The essence of the claim to natural rights is that no one has a right against me unless he can cite some contract, my consent to it, and his performance of his obligations under it.
Gist of Idea
I am naturally free if I am not tied to anyone by a contract
Source
Alasdair MacIntyre (A Short History of Ethics [1967], Ch.11)
Book Ref
MacIntyre,Alasdair: 'A Short History of Ethics' [Routledge 1967], p.155
A Reaction
This has become the foundation of western democracy, and the rebellious teenager's charter. Children have not consented to a contract with their parents. Close and loving relationships cease to be contractual.