What are civil rights?

Civil rights refer to the rights of citizens that ensure their political and social freedom and equality. These rights are fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society, as they protect individuals from discrimination and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society. Civil rights include, but are not limited to, the right to vote, the right to free speech and assembly, and the right to equal treatment under the law.

The significance of civil rights lies in their role in promoting fairness and justice within a society, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to exercise their freedoms and engage in the political process. This concept is essential in addressing inequalities and safeguarding individual liberties against infringement by the state or other entities.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of civil rights. Laws governing the conduct of public officials focus more on legal frameworks rather than the rights of citizens themselves. Rights granted exclusively to government entities do not pertain to civil rights, as these are specifically about protecting individual freedoms. Lastly, privileges afforded only to landowners do not reflect the broad societal principles of equality and rights applicable to all citizens.