Civil Disobedience-Thoreau

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What is Civil Disobedience?

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A form of protest where individuals refuse to obey certain laws or demands of a government to bring about social change.

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Who is Henry David Thoreau?

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An American transcendentalist philosopher and writer known for his essay 'Civil Disobedience' which argues for individual resistance to civil government in moral opposition to an unjust state.

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What is the main argument of Thoreau's 'Civil Disobedience'?

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Individuals should not allow governments to overrule or atrophy their consciences.

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What does Thoreau mean by 'the government is best which governs least'?

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A government that interferes less in the lives of its citizens is more effective and just.

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What is a poll tax?

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A tax that must be paid in order to vote, often used to restrict voting rights.

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Why did Thoreau refuse to pay the poll tax?

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He opposed the Mexican-American War and slavery, which he believed were supported by the government.

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How does Thoreau view the relationship between the individual and the state?

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He believes that individuals have a moral duty to resist unjust laws and government actions.

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What is the significance of Thoreau's time in jail?

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It exemplifies his commitment to his beliefs and serves as a practical demonstration of civil disobedience.

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What does Thoreau compare the government to?

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A machine, suggesting it operates mechanically and often without regard for individual rights.

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What is the impact of civil disobedience according to Thoreau?

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It can lead to social change by raising awareness and challenging unjust laws.