Civil-Disobedience-by-Henry-David-Thoreau

Civil Disobedience by Henry David Thoreau (1849)

Core Principles

  • Motto: "That government is best which governs least."

  • Ultimate Goal: A government that governs not at all, achievable when people are ready for it.

  • Government's Nature: Government is an expedient, often abused by those in power.

  • Role of the People: People must have machinery to execute their will; however, true progress comes from the character and actions of individuals, not government.

Government’s Inefficiencies

  • Standing Army as a Problem: Similar objections to standing armies apply to standing governments.

  • American Government: Seen as a declining tradition; lacks the vitality of a single man.

  • Obstacles to Progress: Government often hinders trade and personal progress; a necessary evil that can be circumvented.

Call for a Better Government

  • Need for Improvement: Thoreau calls for a government that commands respect and is based on conscience rather than majority rule.

  • Rights of the Individual: Individuals must not relinquish their conscience to legislation; men should prioritize right over law.

Critique of Legality

  • Corporate Conscience: Corporations lack morality but groups of conscientious individuals can form morally responsible entities.

  • Consequences of Obedience: Blind respect for law can lead to injustice; soldiers and citizens often participate in immoral acts against their will.

Resistance to Injustice

  • Obligation to Resist: All men have the right to resist unjust government; individuals must prioritize moral duty.

  • Criteria for Action: Thoreau asserts that waiting for majority approval to act is often futile.

Civil Disobedience as a Solution

  • Refusal to Pay Taxes: As a form of protest against slavery and war; urges individuals to refuse supporting an unjust system.

  • Action of Principle: True change requires immediate action to uphold justice, even if it risks personal loss or sacrifice.

The Role of Conscience

  • Personal Responsibility: Each individual must examine their relationship with the government and act accordingly.

  • The Impact of Individuals: A small number of just men can effect significant change.

Conclusion

  • Call to Action: Thoreau insists that the only way to promote justice is through individual action; a peaceful revolution is necessary.

  • A Vision for the Future: Envisions a State that respects individual rights, allowing citizens to fulfill their duties as neighbors without oppressive governance.