Final answer:
Negative rights are protections against government interference, such as the right to free speech, whereas positive rights require government action to secure benefits like the right to a fair trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between positive rights and negative rights is fundamental in understanding the obligations and limitations of a government towards its citizens. Negative rights, such as the right to privacy or freedom of speech, serve as constraints on the government to prevent it from interfering with individual freedoms. They are primarily about abstaining from action. An example of a negative right is the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that "Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech," thus indicating what the government cannot do.
In contrast, positive rights require the government to take action to ensure certain rights are provided. These rights guarantee individuals access to essentials like healthcare, education, or legal protections. An example of a positive right is the entitlement to a fair trial, as the government must actively provide the necessary means for the legal process.
Understanding the difference between these types of rights helps to comprehend the balance between individual freedoms and governmental duties as prescribed by various constitutions, including the ways in which civil liberties and civil rights are protected.