Natural rights are fundamental human rights that are believed to be inherent and universal, not granted by any government or authority. These rights include the right to life, liberty, and property, and are based on the idea that all individuals possess certain freedoms simply by being human. The concept is often associated with Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, who argued that these rights are essential for individual dignity and autonomy. The philosophy of natural rights has influenced many political systems and documents, including the United States Declaration of Independence. It asserts that individuals have the right to defend their natural rights against infringement, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and justice in society.