American history Quote by Edward Snowden
“There have been times throughout American history where what is right is not the same as what is legal. Sometimes to do the right thing you have to break the law.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 2013, TED Talk "The Future of Privacy"
Legal systems can conflict with moral duty; sometimes civil disobedience is necessary.
In simple terms: Right and legal can differ; breaking law may be moral.
Key Takeaway
Act on conscience when law is unjust.
Themes
ethics
law
civil disobedience
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- whistleblowing
- protesting
- journalism
- activism
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When is breaking law justified?
- What are the costs of civil disobedience?
A Different Perspective
Breaking law can cause personal risk and chaos.
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