Certain Quote by Charles Edward Merriam
![“[R]ights do not belong to men simply as men, but because of the superior qualities, physical, intellectual, moral or political, which are characteristic of certain individuals or races.” quote by Charles Edward Merriam](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5b1/charles-edward-merriam-45682_certain_r-ights-do-not-belong-to-men-simply-as-m_1060449.jpg)
“[R]ights do not belong to men simply as men, but because of the superior qualities, physical, intellectual, moral or political, which are characteristic of certain individuals or races.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Politics and the People, 1925
Rights belong to individuals because of superior qualities, not merely gender, and are linked to race or class.
In simple terms: Rights stem from inherent superior traits.
Key Takeaway
Consider how qualities affect entitlement to rights.
Themes
rights
equality
superiority
social hierarchy
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- civil rights advocacy
- educational curricula
- social research
Key Concepts
political theory
ethics
social stratification
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should determine rights?
- How can societies ensure fairness beyond perceived superiority?
A Different Perspective
Risk of justifying discrimination.
![“[T]he influence of the German school is most obvious in relation to the contract theory of the origin of the state and the idea of the function of the state. The theory that the state originates in an agreement between men was assailed by the German thinkers and the historical, organic…” quote by Charles Edward Merriam](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d49/charles-edward-merriam-45682_agreement_t-he-influence-of-the-german-school-is-m_2019101.jpg)
