Final answer:
Our view of human rights has changed significantly over the past few hundred years, expanding to include all individuals and emphasizing fundamental rights and equality. Examples of this can be seen in the Enlightenment period and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Over the past few hundred years, our view of human rights has changed significantly. In the past, rights were often limited to a select few, such as wealthy landowners or men of a certain social class. However, with the rise of enlightenment ideas and social movements, the concept of human rights has expanded to include all individuals, regardless of their social status, gender, or background.
For example, during the Enlightenment period in the 18th century, philosophers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasized the importance of individual rights and equality. They argued that all individuals should have certain fundamental rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and property.
In more recent times, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations in 1948. This document outlines the basic rights and freedoms that should be universally protected, including the right to freedom of speech, religion, and education, as well as the right to a fair trial and protection from torture.