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Is it not possible that an individual may be right and a…

“Is it not possible that an individual may be right and a government wrong? Are laws to be enforced simply because they were made? Or declared by any number of men to be good, if they are NOT good?” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“Is it not possible that an individual may be right and a government wrong? Are laws to be enforced simply because they were made? Or declared by any number of men to be good, if they are NOT good?”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Individuals may be morally correct while governments act unjustly; laws should not be followed blindly if they are unjust.

In simple terms: People can be right even if the law is wrong.

Key Takeaway

Question unjust laws and act ethically.

Themes

justice civil disobedience morality

Mood

defiant thought‑provoking

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • protests
  • whistleblowing
  • legal reform

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you obey a law?
  • What responsibilities do citizens have to challenge injustice?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems often protect the status quo, making change difficult.

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