Human Rights, now in its fourth edition, is an introductory text that is both innovative and challenging. Its unique interdisciplinary approach invites students to think imaginatively and rigorously about one of the most important and influential political concepts of our time.

Tracing the history of the concept, the book shows that there are fundamental tensions between legal, philosophical and social-scientific approaches to human rights. This analysis throws light on some of the most controversial issues in the field: What are the causes of human-rights violations? Is the idea of universal human rights consistent with respect for cultural difference? Are we living in a ‘post-human rights’ world?

Thoroughly revised and updated, the new edition engages with recent developments, including the Trump and Biden presidencies, colonial legacies, neoliberalism, conflict in Syria, Yemen and Myanmar, the Covid-19 pandemic, new technologies and the supposed crisis of liberal democracy. Widely admired and assigned for its clarity and comprehensiveness, this book remains a ‘go-to’ text for students in the social sciences, as well as students of human-rights law who want an introduction to the non-legal aspects of their subject.

“Freeman’s discussion of human rights spans a remarkable range of eras, concepts, and disciplines. Tying it all together are his consistent commitment to showcase multiple sides of debates and the clarity of his writing. Complex yet accessible – a rare combination.”
Shareen Hertel, Professor of Political Science & Human Rights, University of Connecticut

“Michael Freeman is one of the leading and most reliable theorists of human rights. In this latest edition of Human Rights, he offers a detailed and objective perspective upon contemporary human-rights challenges, whilst also proposing ways in which we might more effectively engage with these challenges in the years ahead. His book should be essential reading for students and established academics alike.”
Andrew Fagan, Director, Human Rights Centre, University of Essex

“Michael Freeman is a long-time and careful observer of internationally recognized human rights.  Students and faculty alike always benefit from his insights into that subject covering both theory and practice.  There are sound reasons for his being a well-known scholar on that important topic.”
David Forsythe, University of Nebraska

“As we strain to make human rights 'real' in a range of sectors, such as education, health and housing, we need educationalists, health professionals, housing experts, and those working in other disciplines. The watchword is interdisciplinarity. Freeman provides a top-notch interdisciplinary introduction to the foundations of human rights for everyone wanting to make human rights relevant in the everyday lives of everybody.”
Paul Hunt, Chief Human Rights Commissioner, New Zealand Human Rights Commission

Michael Freeman is Emeritus Professor of Government at the University of Essex.