If intellectuals were a profession, it would probably be better to call them a code of ethics. Here on FR we could simply demand that people adhere by ignoring those who don't.
I agree with your point that we can trivialize the concept of rights, but there does need to be a context in which to restore the civility to debate. I'm wide open to your suggestions.
Shalom.
OK how about this. I have the right to vote for and elect, if possible, people who would pass laws to punish (including imprisionment or capital punishment) people who I don't like for what ever reason I feel requires that solution. Seems too many folks think I don't have that right and, I say, I do have that right. (I think I'm right about that too). Seems people think I am psychotic and or crazy when I express that I have a right to think this way.
I would also like to confirm that I have a right to dislike or even hate other individules or groups of individules and have the right to work against these individules or groups within the political or private arena. It seems like there are those who would not agree but they are incorrect. It seems that when you disagree then they just call you names and threaten you. I would be happy to give out my address to those who threaten me but, I'm not the only one who lives there.