Human Rights and the Age of Inequality

Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. What is the first human rights declaration adopted by the United Nations?

The first human rights declaration adopted by the United Nations is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

b. When is Human Rights Day observed?

Human Rights Day is observed on December 10th.

c. What is the goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is to provide a list of the most basic entitlements that humans deserve by virtue of being human, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

d. What are two big stages that involve writing the history of human rights in relation to that of political economy?

The two big stages that involve writing the history of human rights in relation to political economy are:

• The heroic age of the national welfare states after World War II, where human rights reflected a small part of a larger welfarist consensus.
• The age of globalization and the rise of market fundamentalism, where human rights movements have been unable to address socio-economic inequality effectively.

e. What are the facts that have been missed in Roosevelt’s call for a “second Bill of Rights”?

The missed facts in Roosevelt's call for a "second Bill of Rights" are:

• It marked America's late entry into an already foreordained North Atlantic consensus on welfarism.
• It understated the egalitarian aspirations of welfarism, which aimed for a more equal society and a ceiling on inequality.
• It envisioned national rather than international organization of socio-economic rights.

f. Write the truth expressed in Herodotus’s Histories.

The truth expressed in Herodotus's Histories is that Solon's shaming of Croesus only took him down a peg, but it was the Persian armies that toppled him.

g. Why is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights important to you?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights holds great significance to me because it guarantees the fundamental rights of every individual and strives to establish justice, equality, and fairness for all human beings without any distinction. Its purpose is to eradicate injustice, bias, discrimination, inequality, and other forms of inhumane conduct prevalent in our society. This declaration serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the basic rights of all individuals are safeguarded and respected. By upholding these principles, it paves the way for a more inclusive and harmonious world, where every person is treated with dignity and given equal opportunities to thrive.

Reference to the context

a. Does the essay give ways on how to stigmatize inequality? Explain.

The essay "Human Rights and the Age of Inequality" by Samuel Moyn talks about how human rights came about and what it means for people's well-being. Instead of giving specific ways to tackle inequality, the essay mainly focuses on the importance of recognizing and dealing with inequality. Throughout history, there have been times when some people didn't care enough to share wealth more fairly. If inequality keeps growing, there will be more opposition to it.

That's why we need justice and equality. A new human rights movement with different perspectives can help bring about social equality and freedom. We must closely watch and enforce strict laws to prevent favoritism and discrimination. By getting rid of inequality, we can make society better for everyone.

To sum it up, the essay stresses the importance of recognizing and fighting inequality. It suggests that a new human rights movement is necessary to promote fairness and freedom. We need to keep a close eye on things and have strong laws in place to prevent unfair treatment. Getting rid of inequality is important for the well-being and progress of everyone in society.

b. Is another human rights movement necessary? Why?

I believe we need another human rights movement. The essayist also thinks the same because human rights are being suppressed by politics and economics. There are powerful people in high positions who break the law. Inequality is present in human affairs. Nepotism and favoritism are still practiced, which prevents new ideas and talents from emerging. There is also political and social domination. Laws and rights exist on paper but are not actually implemented. The society is divided into rich and poor, causing injustice and inequality. That's why we really need another human rights movement.

Reference beyond the text

a. What are the challenges in maintaining human rights in Nepal?

In Nepal, there are several challenges in maintaining human rights. Some of the key challenges include:

1. Political Instability: Nepal has experienced political instability over the years, with frequent changes in governments and a lack of strong governance. This instability hampers the effective implementation of human rights policies and laws.
2. Discrimination and Marginalization: Nepal is a diverse country with various ethnic, religious, and social groups. Discrimination and marginalization based on caste, ethnicity, gender, and religion are prevalent, which undermines the principles of equality and human rights.
3. Poverty and Economic Inequality: Nepal is one of the least developed countries, and poverty and economic inequality are significant challenges. These socio-economic disparities often result in limited access to basic necessities, education, healthcare, and opportunities, which violate the fundamental rights of individuals.
4. Limited Awareness and Education: Lack of awareness and understanding about human rights among the general population, particularly in rural areas, is a significant challenge. This leads to a lack of demand for rights and inadequate advocacy for their protection.
5. Weak Rule of Law and Judicial System: Nepal's judicial system faces challenges such as corruption, inefficiency, and a backlog of cases. This undermines the access to justice and the enforcement of human rights.
6. Gender-based Violence and Discrimination: Women and girls in Nepal face various forms of discrimination, violence, and gender-based inequalities. This includes issues such as child marriage, domestic violence, human trafficking, and limited participation in decision-making processes.
7. Freedom of Expression and Media Freedom: Freedom of expression and media freedom have faced restrictions and challenges in Nepal. Journalists and activists often face intimidation, threats, and harassment, limiting their ability to advocate for human rights and hold authorities accountable.

Addressing these challenges requires sustained efforts from the government, civil society organizations, and international community to promote awareness, strengthen institutions, enforce laws, and ensure accountability for human rights violations.