The Declaration of Independence states that inalienable rights include life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, according to USLegal. The right to own property is also a natural right.
The natural rights theory states that people are born with an equality of some rights, irrespective of their nationality, explains the Bill of Rights Institute. These natural or "inalienable" rights cannot be justly taken away without consent, as these come from nature or God.
USLegal defines inalienable rights as rights that cannot be surrendered, sold or transferred to another person. These rights can be surrendered, sold or transferred only with the consent of the person who possesses the rights. An actual or constructive consent is necessary to transfer inalienable rights. Also, these rights cannot be given or taken away except in punishment of crime. Governments cannot grant or create inalienable rights, but they have the responsibility to secure these rights. For instance, Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution of the State of Illinois states that governments are instituted to secure inalienable rights, such as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and protect property. The freedom to practice religion is also considered an inherent, fundamental and inalienable right. Moreover, all citizens have the right to participate in the political processes of the legislative bodies of a country, state or locality.
