Atheism and Human Rights/Protestants and Tradition

Is there overlap between two discussions taking place on MOJ?  One thread addresses Protestants and tradition (here and here) and another the belief in God, atheism, and human rights (here, here and here).  Don't both threads deal with fundamental issues of authority?  A lawyer arguing in court, for instance, is on stronger ground if the relevant authority has spoken in a manner that supports her position.  Is there an Author of human rights?  Is there an authoritative body to interpret revelation?  Does recognizing such an author or body put one on a firmer foundation?  What are the consequences of rejecting such an Author for the human rights project?  What are the consequences of rejecting such an authoritative body (i.e., the magisterium) for the believer?