Civil Disobedience: Thoreau's Philosophy and Paradoxes

Who coined the phrase 'civil disobedience'?

Henry David Thoreau

What action did Thoreau take that led to his arrest?

He refused to pay a tax in opposition to the U.S. war with Mexico.

What was the inspiration for Thoreau's essay 'Civil Disobedience'?

His night in jail after refusing to pay the tax.

What is a paradox?

A statement that expresses the complexity of life by showing how opposing ideas can be both contradictory and true at the same time.

Give an example of a paradox from literature.

Emily Dickinson's line 'Much Madness is divinest Sense' or Shakespeare's 'Parting is such sweet sorrow.'

What does Thoreau believe about government?

He believes that 'government is best which governs least' and ultimately, 'not at all.'

What does Thoreau suggest about the nature of government?

He argues that government is often an expedient that can be abused and perverted.

What does Thoreau mean by 'standing government'?

A government that is permanent and can be used as a tool for a few individuals' interests.

What role does Thoreau believe the character of the American people plays in progress?

He believes that the character of the American people, not the government, has accomplished progress.

What does Thoreau argue about the majority rule in government?

He argues that majority rule cannot be based on justice and questions if conscience should guide governance instead.

What does Thoreau propose for government reform?

He calls for a better government that commands respect rather than a complete absence of government.

How does Thoreau view the relationship between law and right?

He believes it is more important to cultivate respect for the right than for the law.

What consequences do protesters face for civil disobedience according to the text?

They may face beatings, imprisonment, or even death.

Who are some historical figures associated with civil disobedience?

Henry David Thoreau, Mohandas K. Gandhi, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

What is the central theme of Thoreau's essay 'Civil Disobedience'?

The justification and moral imperative of disobeying unjust laws.

What does Thoreau suggest about the role of citizens in government?

He suggests that citizens should prioritize their conscience over the dictates of legislators.

What does Thoreau mean by 'uncivil obedience'?

It refers to the blind following of laws that may be unjust.

What does Thoreau believe is necessary for a government to be respected?

A government that aligns with the conscience of its citizens.

How does Thoreau view the effectiveness of government?

He views government as often obstructive rather than helpful to progress.

What does Thoreau imply about the future of government?

He implies that a government that governs least may be the ideal for a prepared society.

What is the primary obligation of an individual according to the text?

To do what they think is right.

What does the author suggest about a person's duty regarding societal wrongs?

It is not their duty to eradicate every wrong, but they should not support it.

How does the author view the relationship between individual pursuits and societal issues?

One must ensure that their personal pursuits do not come at the expense of supporting injustices.

What inconsistency does the author highlight regarding people's attitudes towards war?

People applaud those who refuse to serve in an unjust war while still supporting the government that causes it.

What is the author's perspective on the role of government in relation to individual morality?

The government often compels individuals to support immoral actions under the guise of order.

How does the author describe his interaction with the tax gatherer?

He views the tax gatherer as a direct representative of the government with whom he must negotiate his principles.

What does the author believe would happen if honest individuals withdrew from supporting slavery?

It would lead to the abolition of slavery in America.

What was the author's experience during his time in jail?

He felt free and saw the jail as a waste of resources, reflecting on the absurdity of being imprisoned.

What did the author observe about the behavior of the townsmen towards him while he was in jail?

They treated him as if he were merely a body to be confined rather than engaging with his thoughts.

How does the author characterize the state?

As half-witted and unable to distinguish between friends and foes.

What was the author's impression of the prison environment?

He found it novel and interesting, noting the camaraderie among prisoners.

What does the author imply about the nature of punishment in the context of imprisonment?

Punishment often targets the body rather than addressing the underlying thoughts or actions of individuals.

What does the author suggest about the importance of individual action in the face of injustice?

Even small actions can have significant impacts on larger societal issues.

What does the author think about the motivations of those who end up in jail?

He believes many are honest individuals caught in unfortunate circumstances.

What philosophical stance does the author take regarding civil disobedience?

He advocates for it as a means of expressing discontent with unjust laws.

What does the author mean by 'washing his hands' of societal wrongs?

He means to distance himself from complicity in injustices.

How does the author view the act of paying taxes?

As a form of recognition and support of the government, which he critiques.

What does the author imply about the relationship between freedom and confinement?

True freedom is a state of mind that cannot be confined by physical walls.

What does the author suggest about the role of government agents like the tax gatherer?

They must confront their actions and their impact on their neighbors.

What is the significance of the author's statement about the 'first blush of sin'?

It indicates how initial moral outrage can fade into indifference over time.

What does the author mean by the term 'copartnership' in relation to slavery?

He refers to the societal complicity in supporting slavery through indirect means.

What does the author reflect on regarding the nature of his imprisonment?

He finds it absurd that the state would choose to confine him rather than utilize his abilities.

What lesson does the author draw from his experience in jail?

That confinement does not limit one's thoughts or ideals.

What paradox does Thoreau identify regarding the authority of government?

Thoreau suggests that government authority is impure unless it has the sanction and consent of the governed.

How does Thoreau's night in jail change his perception of his fellow citizens?

Thoreau gains a clearer understanding of his neighbors' prejudices and the limitations of their moral courage.

What significance does Thoreau attach to his shoe repair and leading a huckleberry party after his release?

It symbolizes a return to normalcy and highlights the triviality of societal constraints compared to personal freedom.

Which arguments of Thoreau do readers tend to agree or disagree with?

Responses will vary; some may agree with his critique of government, while others may find his views on individualism too extreme.

What values of American Romanticism and Transcendentalism are expressed in Thoreau's essay?

Thoreau emphasizes individualism, nature, and moral integrity, reflecting core values of these ideologies.

Is there evidence of reason and Rationalism in Thoreau's arguments?

Thoreau's arguments often rely on personal experience and moral reasoning rather than purely rational analysis.

What does Thoreau's release from jail imply about his relationship with the townspeople?

It raises questions about his integrity and whether he compromised his principles by accepting help to leave jail.

Should Thoreau have insisted on staying in jail for a more effective protest?

Responses will vary; some may argue that staying in jail would have strengthened his protest against unjust laws.

What examples of parallelism can be found in Thoreau's essay?

Thoreau uses parallel structures to emphasize his points about justice, individual rights, and societal norms.

What figurative expressions does Thoreau use in his essay?

Thoreau employs metaphors and similes to illustrate his experiences and critiques of society.

How does Thoreau's diction, such as 'immoral' vs. 'unmoral', affect the essay?

His careful word choice conveys nuanced moral distinctions and critiques societal norms.

What is the central theme of Thoreau's 'My Prisons'?

The theme revolves around individual conscience, the critique of government authority, and the importance of moral integrity.

How can the themes of Thoreau's essay relate to modern Civil Rights movements?

Thoreau's emphasis on individual rights and moral responsibility resonates with contemporary struggles for justice and equality.

What does Thoreau mean by 'peculiar institution'?

He refers to the jail as a unique and troubling aspect of society that reflects moral failings.

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

He believes the State should recognize the individual as an independent power, deserving of respect and rights.

What does Thoreau imply about the moral courage of his neighbors?

He suggests that their willingness to act is limited by their self-interest and societal norms.

What does Thoreau's experience in jail reveal about societal institutions?

It exposes the hidden histories and gossip that exist within societal structures, often overlooked by the public.

How does Thoreau's perspective on justice challenge conventional views?

He argues for a more profound respect for individual rights, beyond mere adherence to laws.

What does Thoreau suggest about the nature of true democracy?

He questions whether democracy is the final form of government, advocating for a deeper recognition of individual rights.

How does Thoreau's writing style contribute to his arguments?

His use of vivid imagery and personal anecdotes enhances the emotional impact of his critique.

What role does personal experience play in Thoreau's arguments?

His personal experiences serve as a foundation for his philosophical insights and critiques of society.

What significant event in Thoreau's life occurred on July 4, 1845?

Thoreau moved to a cabin on the shores of Walden Pond.

What was Thoreau's educational background?

He graduated from Harvard in 1837.

What was Thoreau's profession before moving to Walden Pond?

He briefly worked as a schoolteacher.

Who was a major influence and friend of Thoreau?

Ralph Waldo Emerson.

What did Thoreau hope to achieve during his time at Walden Pond?

To rediscover the grandeur of a simple life led close to nature.

What did Thoreau mean by 'the mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation'?

He observed that many people were caught up in mundane routines and lacked deeper fulfillment.

What was Thoreau's stance on the Mexican War?

He protested against it, viewing it as an attempt to extend slavery.

What act of civil disobedience did Thoreau commit?

He refused to pay his poll tax and spent a night in jail.

What is the title of Thoreau's famous essay that influenced civil disobedience movements?

'Resistance to Civil Government'.

How did Thoreau contribute to the abolitionist movement?

He helped fugitives escape slavery and defended John Brown.

What was Thoreau's relationship with nature during his time at Walden?

He closely observed and recorded natural phenomena, becoming a local expert.

What illness did Thoreau suffer from in 1860?

He was diagnosed with incurable tuberculosis.

How did Thoreau respond to his impending death?

He faced it with calm and peace.

What was Thoreau's view on ambition, according to Emerson?

Emerson believed Thoreau lacked ambition, which he saw as a fault.

What did Thoreau do after leaving Walden in 1847?

He moved back into the Emersons' house and worked on his writing.

What was Thoreau's view on the relationship between man and nature?

He believed that confronting the vital facts of life was essential and could be found in nature.

What did Thoreau's experiment at Walden symbolize?

A quest for simplicity and a deeper understanding of life.

What was Thoreau's contribution to local knowledge?

He kept detailed records of weather patterns and natural events.

What did Thoreau mean by 'engineering for all America'?

He believed that simple acts, like leading a berry-picking party, could have profound impacts.

What was the significance of Thoreau's literary style in 'Walden'?

It blended artistic expression with philosophical content, contributing to its success.

What was Thoreau's relationship with his family business?

He had little interest in it and did not pursue it after his education.

What did Thoreau's journals reveal about his character?

They showed his contemplative nature and desire to engage with life's deeper truths.

How did Thoreau's views influence future leaders?

His ideas inspired figures like Mohandas K. Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.