"Individual rights are not subject to a public vote; a majority has no right to vote away the rights of a minority; the political function of rights is precisely to protect minorities from oppression by majorities (and the smallest minority on earth is the individual)"

This quote by Ayn Rand stresses the value of private rights and the need to protect them from the majority. She argues that specific rights must not go through a public vote, as a majority has no right to remove the rights of a minority. She further mentions that the political function of rights is to safeguard minorities from injustice by majorities. This is particularly crucial as the tiniest minority in the world is the person. This quote highlights the value of safeguarding individual rights, as they are the foundation of a totally free and just society. It is vital that we acknowledge the value of safeguarding the rights of people, as they are the most susceptible members of society.