Human Rights: A Very Short Introduction by Andrew Clapham

A useful and informative work that examined the history and development of human rights and the human rights perspective. Although off to a structurally slow start, I found it quite worthwhile, especially the chapters on torture and the economic, social and cultural rights.

In addition to the general discussion, I also appreciated learning that often the supposed historical landmarks in human rights were just the result of appeasing shifting power balances instead of sincerely intended notions of equality or dignity (i.e., the Magna Carta or the Bill of Rights).

A handy introduction and reference.