Civil liberties refer to the fundamental rights and freedoms that are protected by law and that individuals possess as citizens. These include freedom of speech, religion, assembly, press, and the right to due process of law, among others. Civil liberties are essential for a democratic society because they ensure that people have the ability to participate in their government freely without fear of reprisal or persecution. They also protect individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government, as well as from cruel and unusual punishment if convicted of a crime. In short, civil liberties are essential for maintaining an open, free society that values individual rights and freedoms.