In this episode of Liberalism in Question, guest host Emilie Dye welcomes Helen Dale, senior writer at Law & Liberty, for a deep dive into the philosophical and legal foundations of human rights.
Do human rights exist naturally, or are they purely a creation of legal and political systems? Helen Dale challenges the idea of pre-existing, universal rights, arguing that they only come into effect through valid legislation in liberal democracies. She explores historical perspectives on rights, the influence of religious traditions, and the role of democratic institutions in shaping modern rights discourse.
The conversation also covers the controversial abortion debate, institutional design in liberal democracies, populism, and how different political systems—particularly in Australia and the United States—handle governance, democracy, and technocracy.
Are human rights universal or a product of legislation?
How do different legal traditions shape our understanding of rights?
What role does democracy play in resolving ethical dilemmas like abortion?
Why does Australia’s voting system lead to more stable governance compared to the U.S.?
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional assumptions about rights, democracy, and the future of liberalism.