
Universe of Obligation and Human Rights
At a Glance
Language
English — USSubject
- History
Grade
11–12Duration
One 50-min class period- Human & Civil Rights
Overview
About This Lesson
In preparation to learn about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is important to engage students in a conversation about how individuals and nations define their responsibilities toward other people. In this lesson, students will learn about universe of obligation, a term that sociologist Helen Fein coined to describe the circle of individuals and groups within a society “toward whom obligations are owed, to whom rules apply, and whose injuries call for amends.” 1
The activities invite students to think about the people for whom they feel responsible and help them analyze the ways that their society designates who is worthy of respect and caring and who is not.
- 1 Helen Fein, Accounting for Genocide (New York: Free Press, 1979), 4.
Preparing to Teach
A Note to Teachers
Before teaching this lesson, please review the following information to help guide your preparation process.
Lesson Plan
Activities
Extension Activities
How are you planning to use this resource?
Tell Us MoreMaterials and Downloads
Quick Downloads
Download the Files
Get Files Via Google
Was this resource useful?
Tell us MoreUniverse of Obligation and Human Rights
Unlimited Access to Learning. More Added Every Month.
Facing History & Ourselves is designed for educators who want to help students explore identity, think critically, grow emotionally, act ethically, and participate in civic life. It’s hard work, so we’ve developed some go-to professional learning opportunities to help you along the way.
Exploring ELA Text Selection with Julia Torres
On-Demand

Working for Justice, Equity and Civic Agency in Our Schools: A Conversation with Clint Smith
On-Demand

Centering Student Voices to Build Community and Agency
On-Demand
