Georgia Constitution Practice Exam

According to Article I, how should the enumeration of rights be interpreted?

1. It represents all rights protected

2. It may not deny any inherent rights previously enjoyed

3. It is based on the U.S. Constitution

4. It prioritizes privileges over rights

The correct answer is: It may not deny any inherent rights previously enjoyed

The correct answer emphasizes that the enumeration of rights in Article I should be interpreted in a way that does not deny any inherent rights that individuals have previously enjoyed. This principle reflects the foundational belief in the inherent dignity and worth of individuals, suggesting that just because certain rights are enumerated does not mean other rights, especially those that are natural or constitutional in nature, are excluded. This interpretation aligns with the idea that rights are not merely granted by a constitution or law; rather, they are recognized and safeguarded by that document. Therefore, even if a specific right is not listed, it does not imply that individuals forfeit those rights. This perspective reinforces the broader understanding that the protection of rights is an expansive concept, and the enumeration serves to highlight specific protections rather than create an exhaustive list that restricts individual freedoms. In contrast, the other options do not capture this essential understanding. One option suggests all rights are included, potentially leading to misunderstandings about the nature of enumeration. Another connects the rights exclusively to the U.S. Constitution, which may ignore the unique characteristics of the state's own rights framework. Lastly, the option that prioritizes privileges over rights runs contrary to the fundamental premise of upholding individual rights as primary and not merely as privileges granted by governance