2.6. Negative and Positive Rights

The conceptual understanding of positive and negative rights revolves around their application. The holder of a negative right is entitled to non-interference, while the holder of a positive right is entitled to provision of some good or service. A right against assault is a classic example of a negative right, while a right to welfare assistance is a positive right.

Negative rights protect us from against something and are hence, easier to enforce, because it simply requires striking down the action that violated them. In contrast, positive rights are difficult to implement since it may be difficult or even impossible to fulfill everyone’s positive rights if the sum of people’s claims outstrips the resources available.