What are civil liberties?

Civil liberties are defined as fundamental rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to individuals, protecting them from government interference. These rights are essential to the concept of individual freedom and autonomy, emphasizing the importance of personal liberty within the framework of a democratic society. Examples of civil liberties include freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to privacy, and the right to due process.

This understanding underscores the significance of these protections in maintaining a balance between the power of the government and the rights of the individual, ensuring that citizens can pursue their lives without undue restriction. Being fundamentally enshrined in legal documents like the Bill of Rights, civil liberties are upheld as a crucial aspect of American democracy.