Civil disobedience

Resistance to government
Mass protests
Civil resistance

Nature

Civil disobedience is any act of public defiance of a law, practice or policy of authorities, if that act is premeditated, known by the actor to be illegal, and done for public reasons. Civil disobedience may be direct as was the case of Henry David Thoreau's refusal to pay his poll tax. It may be indirect, such as, burning draft cards in protest against the war in Vietnam.

Background

Civil disobedience emerged as a significant global phenomenon in the 19th century, notably with Henry David Thoreau’s 1849 essay inspiring later movements. Its importance was recognized during India’s struggle for independence under Gandhi and the U.S. civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King Jr. Over time, civil disobedience has been increasingly understood as a catalyst for social and political change, prompting international debate on the legitimacy and impact of nonviolent resistance.

Incidence

Civil disobedience has manifested globally across diverse political systems, with significant episodes reported in countries such as the United States, India, Hong Kong, Iran, and Russia. Large-scale acts of civil disobedience often involve thousands to millions of participants, disrupting transportation, commerce, and governance. These incidents frequently escalate into confrontations with authorities, resulting in mass arrests, injuries, and, in some cases, fatalities. The persistence and scale of such actions underscore their impact on social stability and governmental legitimacy worldwide.
In 2022, widespread civil disobedience erupted in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini. Protesters, particularly women, defied mandatory hijab laws and state-imposed restrictions, leading to mass demonstrations, strikes, and public acts of defiance across multiple cities.

Claim

Nothing at all will be attempted if all possible objections must first be overcome. (Samuel Johnson).

Counter-claim

Civil disobedience is not an important problem at all. In fact, it is often exaggerated and sensationalized. Most acts of civil disobedience are peaceful and serve as a means for citizens to express their views. Rather than being a threat, it is a sign of a healthy democracy where people can voice dissent. Worrying about civil disobedience distracts from addressing truly pressing societal issues.