Meaning: This quote by Gerrit Smith, an American social reformer, abolitionist, and politician, encapsulates the idea that political and constitutional rights are not bestowed upon individuals by governing bodies, but are instead inherent to human beings and are merely recognized and protected by the structures and systems of government. In essence, Smith is emphasizing that these rights are fundamental and inalienable, existing independently of any legal or political framework.

When examining the phrase "Our political and constitutional rights, so called, are but the natural and inherent rights of man," it is important to consider the historical and philosophical context in which it was written. Smith was a prominent figure in the 19th century abolitionist movement in the United States, and his views were deeply influenced by his advocacy for the rights of all individuals, particularly those who were oppressed and marginalized.

Smith's assertion that political and constitutional rights are "the natural and inherent rights of man" aligns with the principles of natural law and natural rights theory. This philosophical perspective, which has roots in the works of thinkers such as John Locke and Thomas Paine, posits that certain rights are intrinsic to human beings by virtue of their existence, rather than being granted by governments or legal systems. These rights are often seen as encompassing fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to participate in the political process.

By describing political and constitutional rights as "asserted, carried out, and secured by modes of human contrivance," Smith acknowledges the role of human-designed institutions and mechanisms in upholding and safeguarding these inherent rights. This highlights the idea that while the rights themselves are innate, their protection and realization often require the establishment of legal frameworks, governmental structures, and mechanisms for enforcement.

Smith's perspective on political and constitutional rights reflects a broader debate about the nature of rights and the relationship between individuals and the state. In contemporary political and legal discourse, the tension between natural rights and legal rights continues to be a subject of discussion and contention. Advocates of natural rights argue that certain freedoms are inherent and universal, transcending the authority of any specific government or legal code. On the other hand, proponents of legal positivism contend that rights are defined and granted by the laws and institutions of a given society.

In the context of American history, Smith's words resonate with the fundamental principles articulated in the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims that "all men are created equal" and are endowed with "certain unalienable Rights." This foundational document of the United States reflects the influence of natural rights theory and underscores the notion that individual rights are not mere creations of the state, but are rooted in the inherent dignity and worth of every person.

In conclusion, Gerrit Smith's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the intrinsic nature of political and constitutional rights. It prompts us to consider the timeless question of the origins and foundations of human rights, challenging us to reflect on the relationship between inherent rights and the mechanisms of governance. By framing rights as both natural and secured by human contrivance, Smith encourages us to contemplate the enduring significance of these rights and the ongoing responsibility to protect and uphold them within the structures of society and government.