The Evolution of the Doctrine of Freedoms: From Natural Principles to Legislative Fixation in the Modern Era

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63931/ijchr.v7iSI1.2.409

Keywords:

human rights, digitalization, fourth generation rights, digital rights, cognitive autonomy, epistemic rights.

Abstract

The modern world is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, leading to a new content in human rights theory. While human rights used to be viewed as universal moral and legal principles aimed at protecting dignity, freedom and equality, today digitalization, the development of artificial intelligence, biotechnology and global networking require a rethinking of these principles in the new environment. The growing dependence of individuals on digital platforms, the widespread use of personal data, and the emergence of algorithmic control over decision-making all call into question the ability of traditional legal systems to effectively protect human rights in the new context (Wong, 2023). Particular attention should be paid to the study of fourth-generation rights, which include not only digital rights, but also cognitive and epistemic rights related to autonomy of thought, protection from manipulative influence, access to reliable information, and participation in knowledge creation (Klang & Murray, 2016). In addition, no less important are bioethical rights, which are being formed in response to the development of reproductive technologies, medical genetics, and the right to a dignified death. All of these areas are gradually shaping a new paradigm of legal thinking that combines digital autonomy with the moral and ethical challenges of the digital age. Importantly, these rights mostly remain in the realm of doctrinal developments and do not have proper legal consolidation, and the absence of a single international legal act that would systematize the human rights of the new generation indicates the need for further theoretical reflection and normative unification.

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Published

2025-10-22

How to Cite

Shchyrba, M., Kurtakova, H., Romanenko, L., Baranovska, T., & Petrenko, A. (2025). The Evolution of the Doctrine of Freedoms: From Natural Principles to Legislative Fixation in the Modern Era. International Journal on Culture, History, and Religion, 7(SI1.2), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.63931/ijchr.v7iSI1.2.409

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