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Single Idea 22790

[from 'Elements of the Philosophy of Right' by Georg W.F.Hegel, in 24. Political Theory / A. Basis of a State / 3. Natural Values / c. Natural rights ]

Full Idea

No one can assert a right against nature.

Gist of Idea

We cannot assert rights which are unnatural

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (Elements of the Philosophy of Right [1821], 244 add)

Book Reference

Hegel,Georg W.F.: 'Elements of the Philosophy of Right', ed/tr. Wood,Allen W. [CUP 1991], p.266


A Reaction

Although the existence of natural rights is dubious (or nonsense, for Bentham), this is a vague but sensible constraint on what can plausibly be asserted as a right. The rights we create in society must respond to natural needs.