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Civil disobedience Quote by Allard K. Lowenstein

“There's no eleventh commandment, "Thou shalt commit civil disobedience," There's no eleventh commandment, "Thou shalt not." What you do is you face the realities of the situation, and decide whether what you're doing will help or hurt the goal you set.” quote by Allard K. Lowenstein
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“There's no eleventh commandment, "Thou shalt commit civil disobedience," There's no eleventh commandment, "Thou shalt not." What you do is you face the realities of the situation, and decide whether what you're doing will help or hurt the goal you set.”

Allard K. Lowenstein

About This Quote

Source Essay: Civil Disobedience and Moral Decision‑Making, 1972

He argues that civil disobedience is a moral choice, urging individuals to assess actions against their goals and the greater good.

In simple terms: Disobedience can be moral if it serves a just goal.

Key Takeaway

Evaluate actions against ethical goals.

Themes

ethics civil disobedience morality goal‑orientation critical thinking

Mood

thought‑provoking critical ethical

Type

philosophical political social commentary

When to use this quote

  • essay
  • public lecture
  • political commentary

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy social activism ethical decision‑making

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does disobedience become harmful?
  • How to balance personal goals with societal impact?
A Different Perspective

Might justify harmful means for perceived ends.

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