Review the four freedoms that Roosevelt describes at the end of the provided excerpt. In a two paragraph response, compare these four freedoms to the Bill of Rights in the US Constitution. Which, if any, of Roosevelts four freedoms does the Bill of Rights describe?
To review the four freedoms that Roosevelt describes at the end of the excerpt, let's first understand what they are:
1. Freedom of Speech: Roosevelt champions the right for every person to express their opinions and ideas without fear of censorship or repercussions.
2. Freedom of Worship: Roosevelt emphasizes the right for individuals to practice any religion they choose, or no religion at all, without facing discrimination or intolerance.
3. Freedom from Want: This freedom highlights the importance of global economic cooperation and the obligation of nations to ensure every individual has access to basic necessities for a decent standard of living.
4. Freedom from Fear: Roosevelt identifies the need for nations to work together to promote peace, reduce armament, and eliminate the pervasive fear that comes with living in constant threat of war or aggression.
Comparing these freedoms to the Bill of Rights in the US Constitution reveals some overlaps, but also some differences. The Bill of Rights, comprising the first ten amendments to the Constitution, guarantees specific individual rights and protections. Although not a direct match, we can draw some connections:
The First Amendment of the Bill of Rights protects freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the right to petition the government, which aligns with Roosevelt's freedom of speech and freedom of worship.
However, the Bill of Rights does not explicitly mention freedom from want or freedom from fear. While these concepts may be implicit in the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, as well as the Eighth Amendment's prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment, they are not specifically addressed.
Therefore, while the US Bill of Rights captures some of Roosevelt's four freedoms, it does not encompass them comprehensively. Rather, Roosevelt's vision extends beyond individual liberties to include international cooperation and a collective commitment to peace, economic well-being, and the eradication of fear.