Final answer:
Civil liberties are protections from government interference, such as the right to a fair trial, and are enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Civil rights, in contrast, are entitlements that require government action to protect against discrimination. Both are fundamental to ensuring freedom and equality in American society.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of civil liberties might include the right to a fair trial. This and other civil liberties are outlined in the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, which act as safeguards against governmental power over individuals. Liberties such as freedom of speech, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the freedom of religion are designed to ensure that everyone can exercise their fundamental rights without undue interference from the government.
In contrast to civil liberties, civil rights are entitlements requiring government action to enforce and protect. They guarantee that individuals are treated without discrimination and are often associated with ensuring equality within society. Together, civil liberties and civil rights form the foundation of American democracy, balancing individual freedoms with the need for order and equality.