An unjust law is itself a species of violence. Arrest for…
“An unjust law is itself a species of violence. Arrest for its breach is more so. Now the law of nonviolence says that violence should be resisted not by counter-violence but by nonviolence. This I do by breaking the law and by peacefully submitting to arrest and imprisonment.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Violent laws perpetuate violence; resisting them through non‑violence involves breaking them and accepting peaceful punishment.
In simple terms: Violent laws cause more violence; non‑violence resists by breaking them peacefully.
Key Takeaway
Use peaceful civil disobedience to oppose unjust laws.
Themes
justice
non‑violence
civil disobedience
political activism
Mood
determined
hopeful
defiant
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- protests
- peaceful arrests
- public policy debates
- community organizing
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
social change
law and morality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect those who practice civil disobedience?
- What limits exist for non‑violent protest?
A Different Perspective
Non‑violent resistance may be ignored or suppressed by authorities.