Close. Very close. According to American founding philosophy, rights ARE intrinsic to our nature, as they are God-given. That, however, does not mean they are free. They must be paid for with the blood of those willing to stand up and defend them. On everything else you say here, Brad, you are absolutely correct. I posted on this as well, so consider this a trackback! http://rightwingrocker.blogspot.com/2007/03/stine-on-rights-of-man.html RWR www.rightwingrocker.com