1776: A declaration of the Parlement of Paris:The first rule of justice is to conserve for each individual that which belongs to him. This is a fundamental rule of natural law, human rights and civil government; a rule which consists not only in maintaining the rights of property, but also those rights vested in the individual and derived from prerogatives of birth and social position.
The declaration from the Parlement of Paris in 1776 highlights a cornerstone of justice: the importance of safeguarding individual rights, particularly concerning property and innate privileges. This principle is rooted in natural law and emphasizes that all individuals are entitled to what rightfully belongs to them, reflecting both human rights and the framework of civil governance.
In the context of Hilary Mantel's "A Place of Greater Safety," this assertion underlines the significance of recognizing and respecting personal and societal entitlements. The quote serves to remind us that justice is not merely about laws but encompasses the preservation of human dignity and the inherent rights connected to one’s identity and social status.
