Freedom of conscience

Freedom of conscience is the freedom of an individual to act upon their moral beliefs.^[1] In particular, it often refers to the freedom to not do something one is normally obliged, ordered or expected to do. An individual exercising this freedom may be called a conscientious objector.^[a]

The right to freedom of conscience is recognized by several international conventions, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights.^[2] It is distinct from but closely related to freedom of thought, freedom of expression and freedom of religion.

See also

• Artistic freedom
• Autonomy
• Cognitive liberty
• Conscience clause (education)
• Conscience clause in medicine in the United States
• Conscientious objection to abortion
• Conscientious objection to military service
• Freethought
• Intellectual freedom
• Liberty
• Political freedom
• Prisoner of conscience
• Vaccine hesitancy and religion
• Vegan school meal
• Whistleblowing

Notes

1. The term "conscientious objector" often implies an objection to military service in particular.