On the Duty of Civil Disobedience

Front

What is the main idea of Thoreau's essay 'On the Duty of Civil Disobedience'?

Back

The main idea is that individuals should not allow governments to overrule or atrophy their consciences, and that they have a duty to resist unjust laws.

Front

Who was significantly influenced by Thoreau's ideas on civil disobedience?

Back

Martin Luther King, Jr. was significantly influenced by Thoreau's ideas.

Front

Define 'unscrupulous'.

Back

Unprincipled; dishonest.

Front

What does 'misdirected; corrupted' mean?

Back

Perverted.

Front

What was Thoreau's stance on the war with Mexico?

Back

He was against it.

Front

What does Thoreau mean by 'we should be men first, and subjects afterwards'?

Back

It emphasizes that individuals should prioritize their moral conscience over blind allegiance to government.

Front

What is civil disobedience?

Back

Civil disobedience is the active, professed refusal to obey certain laws, demands, and commands of a government, based on moral grounds.

Front

How does Thoreau view the role of government?

Back

Thoreau believes that government is often a hindrance to justice and that individuals should act according to their conscience.

Front

What is the significance of individual conscience in Thoreau's philosophy?

Back

Individual conscience is paramount; it guides moral decisions and actions, especially in the face of unjust laws.

Front

What does Thoreau suggest about the majority's opinion?

Back

Thoreau suggests that the majority is not always right and that moral truth can be found in the minority's perspective.