Which concept holds that individuals possess inherent rights such as life, liberty, and property?

• A. Consent of the governed
• B. Natural rights
• C. Rule of law
• D. Popular sovereignty

Answer: (B)

Natural rights are inherent, inalienable rights that every person possesses simply by being human. Philosophers like John Locke argued that life, liberty, and property come from nature (or from God), not from any government, and governments exist to protect those rights. This idea deeply influenced early American thought and the push to limit governmental power, framing the belief that individuals have basic rights that must be secured rather than granted by rulers. The contrast with other concepts helps clarify why this is the correct choice: the consent of the governed speaks to where government legitimacy comes from, the rule of law emphasizes that everyone is subject to the law, and popular sovereignty focuses on the people’s ultimate authority. The notion of natural rights specifically identifies inherent rights like life, liberty, and property as foundational for political order.