Religious Freedom, Democracy and Human Dignity

Abstract

Christian academics developed fundamental theories on people and their inalienable rights as members of the human race over many centuries. More recently, the growing human rights movement has benefited greatly from the contributions of Christian academics and activists, who have been undervalued. From the periphery of both international politics and theology, they have contributed to the advancement of human rights. The idea of human rights has a rich philosophical history that extends well beyond Christianity and predates the rise of Christianity. However, Christians have greatly influenced human rights philosophy and practice. The argument made in this paper emphasizes how crucial religious freedom is. It makes the case that it is essential to the discussion of human rights and the cornerstone of democratic institutions. Furthermore, it highlights more commonplace issues: religious freedom supports democracies' ability to remain both democratic and productive members of the international system. A country's democracy and national security are improved by political and cultural structures that are tolerant of other religions. As it examines "human dignity" and its connections to democracy and human rights, this paper also takes a more secular stance. It evaluates these concerns in light of the Mothers of the Disappeared movement's achievements in Argentina and the ongoing fight for democracy and human rights in the Middle East. The broader conclusion of this paper suggests that democracy and human rights have a solid, constructive relationship.