just vs unjust laws
what should people do when faced with and unjust law that goes against basic morals or human dignity
People should stand up to unjust laws, even if it means breaking them peacefully, because it is their duty to oppose injustice.
How would you describe the tone of Dr. King’s letter?
The tone is urgent and passionate, showing he wants immediate change.
What rhetorical device does Dr. King use when mentioning St. Thomas Aquinas, Socrates, and the Boston Tea Party?
He uses allusion by referencing famous historical and religious figures and events.
What type of appeal is “A just law is a man-made code that squares with the moral law…”?
This is a logical appeal (logos), explaining what makes a law just.
What daily reality caused Black Americans humiliation, fear, and psychological pain?
Segregation caused daily humiliation, fear, and psychological pain for Black Americans.
What is a just law according to Dr. King?
A just law matches what is right and moral and respects human dignity.
Complete the quote: “Any law that uplifts human personality is just. Any law that ________ human personality is unjust.”
“degrades.”
What device is used when Dr. King compares blaming protestors for violence to blaming a robbery victim for being robbed?
He uses analogy to make the situation relatable and highlight unfairness.
What type of appeal is “To put it in the terms of St. Thomas Aquinas…”?
This is an ethical appeal (ethos), showing credibility by referencing a respected philosopher.
How did activists prepare for protests?
Activists trained through workshops and self-purification, showing discipline and commitment to nonviolence.
Who does Dr. King criticize for caring more about keeping things calm than fixing injustice?
Dr. King criticizes white moderates for prioritizing order over real justice
How does Dr. King say someone should break an unjust law?
Someone should break an unjust law openly, lovingly, and be willing to accept the penalty.
What is it called when Dr. King repeats phrases like “just law” and “unjust law”?
This is repetition, used to emphasize the main point.
What emotion does “Everything Hitler did in Germany was ‘legal’…” appeal to?
This appeals to emotions (pathos), showing that legality does not equal morality.
What beliefs and arguments was the movement deeply rooted in?
The movement was deeply rooted in Christian beliefs and moral philosophy.
What kind of disobedience does Dr. King believe is sometimes necessary?
Civil disobedience, which means peacefully breaking unfair laws, is sometimes necessary to fight injustice.
Which quote shows King cares about treating everyone with respect and dignity?
”Any law that uplifts human personality is just. Any law that degrades human personality is unjust.”
Why does Dr. King use allusions to history and religion?
He uses allusions to show that standing up to unfair laws has always been important and respected.
What type of appeal is “One who breaks an unjust law must do so openly, lovingly…”?
This is an ethical appeal (ethos), emphasizing integrity and responsibility.
What did many white moderates and religious leaders prefer over real justice, causing frustration?
They preferred maintaining order instead of taking action for real justice.
Why does Dr. King say it’s wrong when the majority makes rules for minorities but doesn’t follow them themselves?
It is unfair because it shows hypocrisy and denies equal treatment to minorities.
Why does King use such a passionate tone in his letter?
He uses a passionate tone to plead for real change and show how important justice is.
What is the purpose of using analogies in his letter?
Analogies help readers understand how unfair it is to blame those fighting injustice for problems caused by injustice.
What type of appeal is “The Negro’s great stumbling block… is… the white moderate…”?
This is an emotional appeal (pathos), highlighting frustration and disappointment.
Why was Dr. King disappointed in churches and religious institutions?
He was disappointed because they often failed to support the civil rights movement.