Freedom of conscience

Freedom to act upon one's beliefs

Freedom of conscience is the freedom of an individual to act upon their moral beliefs.^[1] In particular, it often refers to the freedom to not do something one is normally obliged, ordered or expected to do. An individual exercising this freedom may be called a conscientious objector.^[a]

The right to freedom of conscience is recognized by several international conventions, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights.^[2] It is distinct from but closely related to freedom of thought, freedom of expression and freedom of religion.

Notes

^ The term "conscientious objector" often implies an objection to military service in particular.

References

^ ""Freedom of Conscience", Oxford English Dictionary". OED.com. Oxford University Press.
^ "Freedom of Conscience Around the World" (PDF). European Parliament.

Bibliography

Leonard M. Hammer (2017). The International Human Right to Freedom of Conscience. Routledge, Taylor & Francis. ISBN 9781138734227.
Jacelyn Maclure; Charles Taylor (2011). Secularism and Freedom of Conscience. Harvard University Press. ISBN 9780674058651.

v
t
e

frontpage hit counter