Freedom of conscience

Freedom of conscience is the freedom of an individual to act upon their moral beliefs.^[1] In particular, it often refers to the freedom to not do something one is normally obliged, ordered or expected to do. An individual exercising this freedom may be called a conscientious objector.^[a]

The right to freedom of conscience is recognized by several international conventions, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights.^[2] It is distinct from but closely related to freedom of thought, freedom of expression and freedom of religion.

Notes

1. The term "conscientious objector" often implies an objection to military service in particular.

References

1. ""Freedom of Conscience", Oxford English Dictionary". OED.com. Oxford University Press.
2. "Freedom of Conscience Around the World" (PDF). European Parliament.

Bibliography

• Leonard M. Hammer (2017). The International Human Right to Freedom of Conscience. Routledge, Taylor & Francis. ISBN 9781138734227.
• Jacelyn Maclure; Charles Taylor (2011). Secularism and Freedom of Conscience. Harvard University Press. ISBN 9780674058651.