civil liberties

1. In general, the rights to freedom of thought, expression, and action, and the protection of these rights from government interference or restriction. Civil liberties are the hallmark of liberal, democratic “free” societies. In the United States, the Bill of Rights guarantees a variety of civil liberties, most notably freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech, expressed in the First Amendment (see also First Amendment). (See civil rights.)

Example Sentences

The comments are the most positive remarks yet by the prime minister about the idea, which is likely to reignite a debate over civil liberties.

From BBC

The concern is not that these data integration capabilities exist, but that government agencies could use them in ways that undermine civil liberties without public consent.

From Salon

Bolton looks like he is in for “punishment by process,” a term used in law, politics and civil liberties to describe how the process of being investigated and prosecuted becomes the punishment itself.

From Salon

His nomination as director was denounced by the ACLU, the NAACP, the National Organization for Women, the Southern Poverty Law Center, and many other civil rights and civil liberties organizations.

From Salon

He urged the legal community to stand firm in defending voting rights, civil liberties, and an independent judiciary.

From Salon

Related Words

• freedom 
• freedom of religion 
• freedom of speech 
• human rights