Matthew Green’s assertion that health care is an “inherent human right” (A sick health care system, 03/12/09) is problematic. Civil society is based on things referred to as negative rights. These are rights such as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These rights protect us from coercion and guarantee liberty. Positive rights, such as a claim to health care, can only be created through contract, not out of thin air.

Jonathan Slemrod
LSA junior