Rights: Theory Practice by Sebastian Farnham

Rights: Theory and Practice dissects the evolution of human rights from revolutionary ideals to the messy reality of their implementation in France, Britain, and America. It questions how grand declarations translated into tangible benefits for average people, revealing a history far more complex than a simple march towards universal inclusion. The book underscores that the journey of rights is marked by power struggles, societal biases, and pragmatic compromises, challenging any straightforward narrative of democratic advancement.

A key focus is on how definitions of citizenship evolved, determining who was included or, more critically, excluded based on factors like race, gender, and class. The book proceeds by first laying the theoretical groundwork of rights as envisioned in revolutionary manifestos. It then transitions into detailed case studies of each nation, examining the initial promises of rights declarations and the subsequent legal and political developments that either expanded or curtailed those rights. The analysis also highlights the social movements and individual champions who fought for greater inclusion and more effective protection.

By employing a comparative historical methodology, the book offers a fresh perspective on the enduring challenges of securing true equality and freedom.