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Crime Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“Under a government which imprisons any unjustly, the true place for a just man is also a prison.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“Under a government which imprisons any unjustly, the true place for a just man is also a prison.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Civil Disobedience", 1849

When a government unjustly imprisons, a truly just person may also end up imprisoned for resisting.

In simple terms: Just people may be imprisoned by unjust governments.

Key Takeaway

Stand up against injustice, even at personal cost.

Themes

justice government civil disobedience

Mood

defiant thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • legal protest
  • whistleblowing

Key Concepts

political philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What forms of resistance are most effective?
  • How do you reconcile personal safety with moral duty?
A Different Perspective

Risk of personal harm and societal backlash.

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