What do negative rights primarily protect?

Negative rights primarily protect individuals from interference by others, especially in the context of government. These rights, often referred to as "freedoms from interference," assert that individuals have the right to act as they please, provided they do not infringe on the rights of others.

When we consider the implications of negative rights, it becomes clear that they focus on ensuring that individuals have the liberty to pursue their interests without unwarranted constraints or coercion from external forces. This creates a framework where personal autonomy is respected and safeguarded.

In this context, the notion of "no entitlement" embodies the essence of negative rights. It indicates that individuals are not entitled to certain benefits or affirmative actions from others; instead, they are guaranteed freedom from interference, allowing them to navigate their lives and make choices independently.

Therefore, recognizing that negative rights primarily revolve around the idea of personal freedom and the absence of obligation from others to provide or support certain actions helps clarify why the protection they offer is fundamental to individual autonomy in a society.