Final answer:
Civil liberties are guarantees of freedom from government interference that prevent the government from placing restrictions on many individual actions and choices. The government and courts have a role in balancing civil liberties with individual rights. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes' statement highlights the importance of balancing civil liberties with individual rights and protections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Civil liberties are guarantees of freedom from government interference that prevent the government from placing restrictions on many individual actions and choices. In the United States, civil liberties are found in the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights. These amendments include protections such as freedom of speech, the right to be secure in one's person and property, and protection against excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment.
The role of the government and the courts in balancing civil liberties with individual rights is an important aspect of a democratic society. The government is tasked with ensuring the protection of individual freedoms while also upholding the common good. The courts play a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and determining the constitutionality of laws and government actions. Through their decisions, the courts help strike a balance between civil liberties and individual rights.
Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes' statement, 'Your rights end when your fist makes contact with my face,' means that individuals' rights cannot be used to harm or infringe upon the rights of others. This analogy highlights the importance of balancing civil liberties with individual rights and protections. While individuals have the right to exercise their civil liberties, they should not cause harm or violate the rights of others in the process.