Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

viewing children as necessary members of society means that they are regarded more as people in their own right than as those of subordination.

What does "in their own right" mean in this case?


thanks

[scottish_tiger]

Hi jasonlulu_2000,

In past times children were frequently "seen but not heard" as it was considered that they did not have enough life experience to really have much to say on any one subject. However, and this is where the phrase "in their own right" comes from, it has been found that younger people do have thoughts & ideas on many issues (such as the environment, human rights, etc) so any comments that they make on these subjects should be listened to by adults, politicians & large social groups as valuable contributions rather than just the rantings of a younger generation with no say on their own future.

Hope this helps with your question.

Scottish Tiger
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