Quotes on Natural Rights

Natural rights [are] the objects for the protection of which society is formed and municipal laws established.

What is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.

The personal right to acquire property, which is a natural right, gives to property, when acquired, a right to protection, as a social right.

The rights [to religious freedom] are of the natural rights of mankind, and ... if any act shall be ... passed to repeal [an act granting those rights] or to narrow its operation, such act will be an infringement of natural right.

All mankind... being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty or possessions.