The concept of a hierarchy of rights is central to legal, ethical, and philosophical discourse, as it seeks to address the complexities that arise when different types of rights—such as human rights, legal rights, and moral rights—come into conflict. The notion implies that not all rights are of equal weight or significance, and that in cases where rights clash, some must take precedence over others. This framework helps to clarify which rights should be upheld in various situations, especially in cases where fully respecting one right may limit or infringe upon another.

The idea of prioritizing rights is particularly relevant in law, where courts, lawmakers, and governments must often balance competing claims, ensuring that justice and fairness are maintained while respecting the integrity of the legal system. Similarly, in moral philosophy, determining the hierarchy of rights is crucial for ethical decision-making, as it shapes judgments about what is right or wrong in scenarios involving conflicting obligations or interests. Different rights may also have varying scopes and applications depending on their source—whether they derive from natural law, social contracts, or ethical norms—further complicating the task of ranking them. Though many theories have been proposed to explain how rights should be ordered or prioritized, the core challenge remains the same: determining how to navigate situations where rights overlap or conflict. By exploring major perspectives on this issue, we gain deeper insight into the principles that guide legal systems, ethical frameworks, and societal norms in balancing individual freedoms, duties, and communal well-being.