[T]here are some human rights that are so deep that we…
![“[T]here are some human rights that are so deep that we can't negotiate them away. I mean people do heinous, terrible things. But there are basic human rights I believe that every human being has. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the United Nations says it for me. And it says there are…” quote by Sister Helen Prejean](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/5c4/sister-helen-prejean-94083_an-eye-for-an-eye_t-here-are-some-human-rights-that-are-so_222080.jpg)
““[T]here are some human rights that are so deep that we can't negotiate them away. I mean people do heinous, terrible things. But there are basic human rights I believe that every human being has. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the United Nations says it for me. And it says there are two basic rights that can't be negotiated that government doesn't give for good behavior and doesn't take away for bad behavior. And it's the right not to be tortured and not to be killed. Because the flip side of this is that then when you say OK we're gonna turn over -- they truly have done heinous things, so now we will turn over to the government now the right to take their life. It involves other people in doing essentially the same kind of act." (PBS Frontline: Angel on Death Row )””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker argues that basic human rights, such as freedom from torture and death, are innegotiable, even for criminals.
In simple terms: Fundamental rights cannot be surrendered.
Key Takeaway
Uphold inalienable rights for all.
Themes
human rights
ethics
justice
life
torture
Mood
serious
ethical
Type
argument
reflection
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- policy debates
- prison reforms
Key Concepts
law
philosophy
criminal justice
Questions to Reflect On
- Can rights be absolute in extreme cases?
- How do societies reconcile punishment with human dignity?
A Different Perspective
Balancing rights with public safety is complex.