Thoreau and MLK

Question 1

Be prepared to discuss Thoreau’s views on breaking unjust laws

Answer 1

Thoreau believes everyone must rebel and revolutionize against unjust laws. For example, he also states that there are many who are in opinion opposed to slavery and to the war, who yet in effect do nothing to put an end to them. Even voting for the right is doing nothing for it. He uses an example by saying if one honest man ceases to holding slaves, were actually to withdraw from this copartnership, and be locked up in the county jail, it would be the abolition of slavery in America. For it matters not how small the beginning may seem to be: what is once well done is done forever.

Question 2

Be prepared to discuss King’s views on breaking unjust laws

Answer 2

King believes that unjust laws must be opposed through nonviolent resistance because they violate moral law and basic human dignity. He grounded this approach in Natural Law Theory, arguing that laws imposed on minorities without their consent violate fundamental, God-given rights. King asserted that nonviolence was essential because it not only rejected immoral means to achieve moral goals but also demonstrated moral strength and commitment to justice. For King, breaking unjust laws was not a rejection of the legal system but a means to expose systemic injustice

Question 3

Be prepared to discuss King’s views on the white moderate and their belief in the “myth of time”.

Answer 3

The white moderate refers to individuals who are theoretically sympathetic to the plight of black people but practically opposed to their demonstrations, protests, etc. King believes that they are the greatest obstacle towards freedom of black people compared to hate groups. King believed that the idea of “the myth of time” was a flawed notion held by the white moderate, which assumed that simply waiting would lead to progress and equality. He argued that time is neutral and can be used either destructively or constructively, and real change requires active, persistent effort, not passivity

Question 4

Be prepared to take a stance on whether or not it is morally permissible, or perhaps even morally required, to break laws if they are unjust.

Answer 4

It is morally right to break unjust laws to stand up for human rights and fairness, as long as it doesn’t harm others or go against our moral values. Nonviolent protests and peaceful disobedience can shine a light on injustice and push for change. However, breaking every law or using violence can lead to more suffering, not less. I think it is important to challenge unfair systems in a way that stays true to ethical principles and inspires positive change without causing more harm or suffering.