Human Rights in a Big Yellow Taxi

A twelve-year-old's protest against a youth club closure sparks a critical examination of human rights erosion in Human Rights in a Big Yellow Taxi.

In Human Rights in a Big Yellow Taxi, the narrative begins with a striking incident involving a twelve-year-old schoolboy arrested by an anti-terrorist police squad. His crime? Organizing a peaceful protest against the closure of a local youth club, targeting the office of his member of parliament, who also happens to be the Prime Minister of Great Britain. This absurdity sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the troubling implications of overreaching anti-terrorist legislation.

Kerr skillfully weaves together a tapestry of examples that highlight the gradual erosion of human rights, particularly in the context of Great Britain and the United States. He draws upon legislation enacted under various American presidents, from Reagan to Obama, illustrating how political decisions can infringe upon individual liberties. The author’s keen observations reveal a concerning trend where the balance between security and personal freedoms is increasingly tilted in favor of the former.

Additionally, Human Rights in a Big Yellow Taxi delves into the philosophical movements that have shaped the discourse surrounding human rights. Kerr examines both the advancements and setbacks in this field, all while keeping a keen eye on the social and political forces at play. This book is essential reading for anyone who seeks to understand the disturbing developments affecting fundamental rights in contemporary society.