Section 2 of the Kansas Bill of Rights declares that all men are possessed of equal and inalienable natural rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Understanding Section 2 of the Kansas Bill of Rights
This foundational statement is a cornerstone of individual liberties within the Kansas Constitution. It establishes a core principle that every person inherently holds certain rights that cannot be surrendered or taken away. These rights are considered "natural," meaning they are inherent to human existence, not granted by government or any external authority.
Key Elements of Section 2
Section 2 clearly articulates several critical components:
- Equality: It asserts that "All men are possessed of equal" rights, emphasizing that these fundamental entitlements apply universally to all individuals without discrimination.
- Inalienable Rights: The term "inalienable" signifies that these rights cannot be transferred, sold, or removed. They are intrinsic to one's being.
- Natural Rights: These are rights that are considered to stem from human nature itself, rather than from laws or government.
- Specific Examples: The section explicitly lists three paramount natural rights:
- Life: The right to exist and to be protected from unlawful harm.
- Liberty: The freedom to act, think, and express oneself without undue restrictions, provided it does not infringe upon the rights of others.
- The Pursuit of Happiness: The freedom to seek and achieve personal well-being and fulfillment in one's own way.
Significance and Interpretation
Section 2 of the Kansas Bill of Rights draws heavily from Enlightenment philosophy and echoes sentiments found in the United States Declaration of Independence. It serves as a philosophical bedrock for other rights and protections detailed within the Kansas Constitution. This section underscores the idea that government's primary purpose is to secure these pre-existing natural rights for its citizens.
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Equality | Recognizes that fundamental rights are equally held by all individuals. |
| Inalienable | Implies that these rights are inherent and cannot be given away or justly taken. |
| Natural | Refers to rights that are not granted by law but by nature or a higher power. |
| Specific Rights | Explicitly lists life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as examples. |
Where to Find the Full Text
The full text of the Kansas Bill of Rights, including Section 2, can be found as part of the Kansas Constitution. You can review the complete document on legal reference sites like Justia Law.
