What core principle is expressed in the Declaration of Independence regarding individual rights?

The Declaration of Independence prominently articulates the principle of unalienable rights, which are rights that cannot be taken away or denied. This foundational concept asserts that individuals possess intrinsic rights simply by being human, and among these rights are "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." The emphasis on unalienable rights underscores the belief that these rights are inherent and not granted by any government or authority, making them central to the rationale for America's break from British rule. This principle reflects Enlightenment ideas that influenced the framers, emphasizing individual dignity and the importance of protecting these rights for every person.

In contrast, while equality of opportunity, the right to vote, and freedom of speech are also significant concepts in American political thought, they do not capture the essence of the core principle outlined in the Declaration as effectively as the notion of unalienable rights does.