What are civil liberties?

Civil liberties refer to the fundamental rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to individuals, primarily through the Bill of Rights and various amendments to the U.S. Constitution. These protections ensure that individuals are free to express themselves, practice their religion, and engage in political activities without undue interference or restriction from the government. They form the foundation of a democratic society, ensuring that citizens can enjoy personal freedoms and privacy.

The distinction is important because civil liberties are designed to limit government power and protect individuals from abuses, particularly in relation to speech, assembly, religion, and due process. This context illustrates why the other options do not align with the definition of civil liberties. For instance, government benefits pertain more to social welfare programs rather than individual rights, while responsibilities of citizens involve obligations like paying taxes and serving on juries, which do not inherently relate to personal freedoms. Rules governing elections are focused on the legal framework for conducting electoral processes and do not directly address individual freedoms. Therefore, the accurate definition encapsulated in the correct choice highlights the critical role these liberties play in safeguarding personal freedoms against governmental encroachment.