What are civil liberties primarily defined as?

Civil liberties refer to the fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from government overreach and ensure the ability to participate freely in society without undue interference. These liberties are inherent to the individuals and are typically enshrined in laws and constitutions, ensuring that citizens can express themselves, practice their religion, assemble peacefully, and receive fair treatment under the law without coercion or discrimination from the government.

The significance of civil liberties lies in their role in preserving democratic values and human rights, allowing individuals to speak out against injustices and to maintain personal freedoms. This distinction is crucial; while responsibilities and guidelines can be imposed by the government, civil liberties stand as protections against such imposition, emphasizing the relationship between the individual and state.

The other options denote concepts that do not accurately capture the essence of civil liberties. Responsibilities pertain to duties citizens owe to their country, privileges suggest that rights can be bestowed or revoked by authorities, and guidelines for social behavior imply regulatory measures that do not align with the protective nature of civil liberties.