Chapter 1 Multiple choice questions

1. Match the concept to the general definition.

The idea that human dignity is based on laws and governmental practices that enable an individual to decide the important features of his or her own life; the idea that individuals are self-directed, rather than only the object of someone else's desires or interests.

The idea that human dignity is based on laws and governmental practices that enable an individual to take part in the processes of determining and advancing the common good of his or her society, usually by direct or indirect participation in the political processes of law-making and governance.

The idea that human dignity is based on laws and governmental practices that recognise differences between individuals (e.g. what each considers valuable and worthwhile in life), and allow those differences to flourish, especially through different religions, political parties and other organisations.

The idea that human dignity is based on the recognition of certain fundamental provisions and principles that apply equally to all human beings, everywhere and in every society (although the specific application of these principles is likely to be different in different social, economic and cultural contexts).

2. Which of the following general political theories (upon which a political system might be based) is compatible, to some extent, with the defence of human rights?

Nazism.

Utilitarianism.

Anarchism.

Stalinism.

3. Match the human rights definition with its name.

Civil rights.

Political rights.

Social rights.

Third generation rights.

4. Which one of the following statements best expresses the way in which the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) helps to secure human rights under the auspices of the UN?

The ICCPR is a list of civil and political rights agreed to by most UN states, but it is essentially an expression of aspirations (hopes and intentions) and does not impose obligations on states that are binding in international law.

The ICCPR is a list of obligations accepted by signatory states, but there is no effective enforcement procedure available because it relies entirely on states reporting to the Human Rights Committee on their own behaviour.

The ICCPR is a list of obligations accepted by signatory states; it is enforced through the reporting process of the UN Human Rights Committee and there is also an Optional Protocol by which states can grant their citizens a right of complaint.

The ICCPR is a list of obligations accepted by signatory states, but there is no effective enforcement procedure available; in particular, there is no process for individuals to bring complaints against the behaviour of their own states.

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