In conclusion, it goes without saying, that any government proclaiming to be liberal-democratic should protect the social rights of its citizens and demographic groups. Overall, the constitutions of many countries in North America and Western Europe reflect a liberal-democratic framework. Toward this end they were carefully drafted to be able to maintain liberal-democratic norms. For example, the United States boasts of being the torch bearer for freedom of speech. Even when compared to several western European democracies (like UK, France, Germany, etc), the United States ranks higher in this respect. But in certain other social rights parameters relating to race and gender, there is still a regressive tendency in society. Likewise, the countries in Western Europe also possess a chequered social rights record.
References
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* Rethinking the First Freedom. (2006, March 12). The Washington Times (Washington, DC).
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Zarra, E. J., III. (2005, Spring). Practice Makes Imperfect: From Natural Rights to Mean Genes. Social Studies Review,44(2), 75+.