Thoreau's Critique of American Democracy

Thoreau's 'Civil Disobedience' argues against unjust government actions, emphasizing the moral duty to resist such actions. He critiques American democracy, majority rule, and the ineffectiveness of voting for social change. Thoreau opposes slavery and the Mexican-American War, advocating for nonviolent resistance and personal protest. He stresses self-reliance, individual integrity, and critiques materialism. His ideas influenced leaders like Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting the power of individual action in societal change.

What was the original title of Thoreau's essay 'Civil Disobedience'?

• Resistance to Civil Government

• The Role of the Individual

• The Duty of Civil Disobedience

• On the Duty of Disobedience

According to Thoreau, what is the best form of government?

• A government that governs not at all

• A government that governs the most

• A government that governs with strict laws

• A government that governs with a strong military

What does Thoreau believe individuals should follow over the law?

• Religious doctrines

• The majority's opinion

• Their conscience

• Government policies

Why does Thoreau criticize American democracy?

• It does not guarantee justice

• It is too lenient

• It is based on religious principles

• It is too strict

What does Thoreau see as an ineffective tool for social change?

• Petitioning

• Writing essays

• Protesting

• Voting

What immediate backdrop does Thoreau use for his essay?

• Slavery and the Mexican-American War

• The American Revolution

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Civil War

What does Thoreau urge individuals to do in response to unjust laws?

• Refuse to support them

• Accept them

• Ignore them

• Promote them

What is a key element of Thoreau's philosophy?

• Military intervention

• Economic sanctions

• Aggressive protest

• Nonviolent resistance

Who were influenced by Thoreau's notion of nonviolent resistance?

• Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt

• Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

• Abraham Lincoln and George Washington

• Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu

What does Thoreau emphasize throughout 'Civil Disobedience'?

• Collective action and government approval

• Conformity and obedience

• Self-reliance and individual integrity

• Material wealth and social status