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What is the definition of a civil right?
I am looking for a technical definition (as opposed to a personal definition). Give me a source.
2 Answers
- Anonymous1 decade agoFavorite Answer
The rights belonging to an individual by virtue of citizenship, especially the fundamental freedoms and privileges guaranteed by the 13th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and by subsequent acts of Congress, including civil liberties, due process, equal protection of the laws, and freedom from discrimination.
adj. or civ·il-rights (sĭv'əl-rīts')
Of or relating to such rights or privileges: civil rights legislation.
Of or relating to a political movement, especially during the 1950s and 1960s, devoted to securing equal opportunity and treatment for members of minority groups.
- 1 decade ago
"Civil" comes from the Latin, civilis; the french, civis meaning citizen. It means "Of, pertaining to, or made up of, citizens."
Therefore "civil rights" are those belonging to legal citizens of a country. Thus, animals do not have rights, illegal aliens do not have rights, space aliens do not have rights.
A civil right is a legitimate claim to something which is yours. A civil right is yours by virtue of you being a legal citizen.
Source(s): "Websters New International Dictionary of the English Language", G. & C. Merriam Company:Springfield, Mass., 1926, page 406 Note: It weighs 15 lbs.
