Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

According to the authors of the Declaration of Independence, who is primarily responsible for protecting natural rights?

1. The individual

2. The government

3. The military

4. The monarchy

The correct answer is: The government

The correct answer emphasizes the role of government in protecting the natural rights of individuals, as articulated in the Declaration of Independence. The authors, primarily Thomas Jefferson, argue that governments are instituted among people to secure these natural rights, which include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This foundational principle asserts that the legitimacy of government derives from its ability to protect these rights and that when a government fails in this duty, it loses its authority and the people have the right to alter or abolish it. The context surrounding this answer is significant: the Declaration was a response to perceived abuses by the British monarchy, which illustrates why monarchy does not play a role in protecting natural rights according to the authors. The military, although important for national defense, is not primarily focused on the protection of individual rights in the social contract context laid out in the Declaration. While the individual has a role in safeguarding their own rights, it is ultimately the government's responsibility to ensure that these rights are upheld collectively. This framework establishes a clear social contract where the government is held accountable for the protection of its citizens' natural rights.