This lay version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (the original version was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1948) has been written in simplified vocabulary to make it understandable to a wider range of ages and reading abilities. The declaration consists of a preamble followed by a listing of 30 goals common to…

A general theory of value is outlined to show that moral agency is necessary to human dignity and that liberty, equality, and fraternity are necessary to moral agency. These ideals can be implemented in schools and human dignity can be at the core of the professional ethics of teaching. (MT)

This paper underscores the significance of personal dignity, decency, and integrity as the core values and symbionic concepts to promote human rights education. It proposes a proactive model with philosophical ramifications and practical applications proposed for educators, researchers, and mental health practitioners interested in human rights…

The right of the individual to make personal choices in health matters without undue pressure from health educators is discussed. (JD)

The problems of the use of humans as subjects of medical research and the protection of their rights are discussed. Issues include the use of informed consent, the evaluation of risks and benefits, and the review of research plans by a committee. (JD)

This article discusses the reasons why the Holocaust ought to be included in school curricula and outlines topics for instruction. (MM)

In many western countries, corporal punishment has been abolished as a form of punishment in criminal trials and in schools. Under South African common law, persons entitled to enforce discipline may inflict corporal punishment within certain guidelines established by the Supreme Court. For the first time in the Republic of South Africa (RSA), the…

This paper discusses ways in which international organizations have in the past and can continue in the future to foster social, economic, and cultural rights on a global scale. Involvement of international organizations such as the United Nations in the realm of human rights expanded after the second world war. Examples of contributions to the…

Discusses confusion about the meaning of human rights in the United States. Suggests that welfare rights usurp the more traditional freedom rights of the founding fathers. Contrasts American interpretations with those of the Soviet Union. Journal availability: see SO 507 190. (KC)

Provides a brief history of the development of the United Nations. Identifies achievements of the United Nations in the promotion of human rights, the translation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights into binding international covenants, and the establishment of monitoring mechanisms to ensure the protection of human rights. (KO)

Recognizing the complex issues involved in the use of human subjects for research, the authors have outlined three ethical principles and guidelines, distinguished between research and practice, and discussed the application of the principles. In general, practice refers to interventions designed to enhance the well-being of clients and which can…

Examines writings of Pope John Paul II on the international migration phenomenon. Suggests that the Pope's teaching offers a Christian interpretation of migration, ethnicity, and the economic and political causes for the displacement of people and that just and humane solutions to the problems of immigrants may be found in his message. (Author/MJL)

Reflection upon childrens' rights and needs and upon society's values with regard to children has been stimulated by the United Nation's designation of 1979 as the International Year of the Child (IYC). Conflicting images related to children and childhood have emerged as a result of this increased concern with young people. These include that…

World reaction to the 1995 release from house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi, leader and founder of the major opposition party in Burma (now Myanmar), indicates significant change in international relations, specifically in the international political system. The total sovereign states today (249) have increased, as have system "rules"…

Analyzes how the need to maintain the societal system results in the practice of power politics and the repression of human needs. Examines how democracy is an institutionalized means of resistance to demands for human needs. States that the Western political philosophy's interest-oriented system is a major source of global violence. (GEA)