Main points
What is the primary argument Thoreau presents in "Civil Disobedience"?
The government is best which governs least.
What term does Thoreau use to describe the act of refusing to follow certain laws?
Civil disobedience
What type of appeal does Thoreau primarily use to convince his readers?
Ethical appeal (ethos)
What is Thoreau's ultimate goal in advocating for Civil Disobedience?
To inspire individuals to act against unjust laws.
What action does Thoreau specifically encourage his readers to take?
To refuse to pay taxes that support war and injustice.
According to Thoreau, what is a moral duty when laws are unjust?
To resist and not comply with those laws.
Identify a powerful adjective Thoreau uses to describe government actions he opposes.
Tyrannical
How does Thoreau appeal to emotion (pathos) in his essay?
By sharing personal anecdotes and moral dilemmas.
How does Thoreau believe civil disobedience can impact society?
It can create awareness and prompt social change
How does Thoreau suggest individuals can enact change in their communities?
By engaging in peaceful protest and nonviolent resistance.
How does Thoreau define a just government?
A government that respects the rights of individuals.
What verb does Thoreau employ to urge individuals to take action against injustice?
Resist.
What logical agrument (logos) does Thoreau make regarding the effectiveness of civil disobedience?
That it can lead to social change and reform
What does Thoreau hope to achieve through his essay?
A call for people to prioritize moral integrity over blind obedience
What personal sacrifice does Thoreau imply is necessary for true advocacy?
Willingness to face imprisonment or social ostracism.
What historical context influenced Thoreau's writing on civil disobedience?
The abolitionist movement and the Mexican-American war.
In "Civil Disobedience," Thoreau often contrasts which two concepts to emphasize his point?
Justice vs. Law
Which historical figures does Thoreau reference to strengthen his argument?
Luther, Copernicus, Washington, etc
In what way does Thoreau envision a better government through civil disobedience?
What is Thoreau's message about the responsibility of individuals in democracy?
That individuals must not be passive but active in seeking justice.
How does Thoreau view the relationship between the individual and the state?
The individual should prioritize their conscience over the dictates of the state.
What metaphor does Thoreau use to illustrate the burden of unjust laws?
A "machine" that people must not let control them.
How does Thoreau use philosophical references to appeal to his audience?
By invoking transcendentalist ideas and moral philosophy.
How does Thoreau's philosophy challenge the status quo of his time>
By encouraging individuals to question and resist authority.
How does Thoreau frame the act of civil disobedience as a form of patriotism?
As a deeper loyalty to moral principles rather than blind allegiance to the state.