Which of the following best describes civil liberties?

Civil liberties are fundamental rights that individuals possess, which are protected from government interference. These liberties are essential to the functioning of a democratic society and encompass basic freedoms such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to privacy, and the right to due process. The protection of these rights ensures that individuals can express themselves, practice their beliefs, and live without unwarranted government intrusion.

The designation of civil liberties as "fundamental" signifies that they are inherent to human dignity and are not granted by the government, but rather recognized and safeguarded by law. This distinction is crucial because it emphasizes that these rights are universal and must be respected regardless of government policies or societal changes.

In contrast, government-granted benefits, social responsibilities, and community regulations do not fall under the definition of civil liberties. These concepts typically revolve around obligations or support systems provided by the state or community, rather than individual rights that need protection from governmental action. Thus, the description of civil liberties aligns best with the notion of fundamental rights protected from government interference.