Niall Ferguson's book "The British Empire" examines the foundational beliefs that shaped modern democratic principles. Central to these ideas is the assertion that all men are created equal, which reflects Enlightenment thinking. This philosophy has influenced the emergence of rights that are universally accepted as inherent to all individuals.

Ferguson highlights the inalienable rights bestowed by a creator, emphasizing life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as fundamental tenets. These concepts have significantly impacted political systems and social movements, underlining the commitment to individual freedom and equality that drives the evolution of societies.