What philosopher is primarily responsible for the modern conception of human rights as ethical practice based on the idea that, as beings capable of rational thought, all humans have an incontrovertible right to freedom based on fundamental human dignity? (This idea has been very influential for modern human rights law.)
One philosopher who is primarily responsible for the modern conception of human rights based on the idea of fundamental human dignity and freedom is Immanuel Kant. Kant argued that individuals possess inherent worth and must be treated as ends in themselves, rather than merely as means to an end. He believed that humans, as rational beings, have a duty to respect and protect the moral rights of all individuals. Kant's ethical framework, known as deontological ethics, emphasizes the importance of ethical principles and universal moral duties. His ideas on human dignity and freedom have had a significant influence on modern human rights thinking and the development of human rights law.
