Which statement best describes a fundamental characteristic of civil liberties?

Civil liberties are essential rights and freedoms that protect individuals from excessive government intrusion. The assertion that they protect individuals from government overreach captures the essence of civil liberties as they are designed to ensure personal freedoms such as speech, assembly, and religion, free from governmental infringement. This characteristic is fundamental because civil liberties form a barrier against tyranny, allowing individuals to express themselves, practice their beliefs, and assemble peacefully.

In contrast, the notion that these rights are limited to specific groups suggests a discriminatory perspective that contradicts the universal principles upon which civil liberties are built; they are intended for all citizens. The idea that they require government approval misrepresents their nature, as civil liberties exist to restrict the government's power rather than to require its validation. Likewise, the belief that civil liberties change frequently due to the political climate undermines their fundamental role in society, as they are typically enshrined in constitutional law to remain consistent over time, irrespective of political shifts.