Masaryk University monographs
This fundamental question has long stood at the center of philosophical inquiry, attracting complex and often conflicting attempts at justification. The present volume offers a systematic overview of the principal philosophical approaches to grounding human rights, tracing the evolution of key debates and highlighting issues that remain unresolved. A distinctive feature of the book lies in its engagement with utilitarianism – a moral theory frequently regarded as incompatible with the very idea of human rights. The author argues, however, that certain utilitarian perspectives can offer valuable insights into the justification and coherence of human rights discourse, thereby challenging conventional assumptions about their relationship.
ISBN 978-80-280-0768-3
Martin Hapla
Martin Hapla is Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Legal Theory at the Faculty of Law, Masaryk University. He holds degrees in law and legal theory, his research focuses on legal philosophy, human rights theory, and professional ethics. He is the author or co-author of two scholarly monographs and his work has appeared in a number of international journals including Legal Ethics and The Age of Human Rights Journal.
Philosophy of human rights
Why should we have human rights?
Martin Hapla
Philosophy of human rights Concept and justification theories