Reflections on Civil Disobedience
Henry David Thoreau's Perspective
In his essay, Civil Disobedience, published in 1849, Henry David Thoreau puts forth a compelling argument about the authority of government. He believed that for a government to be truly just, it must have the consent and sanction of those it governs. He also argued that the evolution from an absolute monarchy to a democracy is a progression towards a greater respect for the individual. Thoreau questioned if democracy was the ultimate form of government or if there were further steps to be taken towards recognizing and organizing the rights of man.
Thoreau's Influence on Direct Government
Those familiar with my previous writings on Hannah Arendt and Thomas Jefferson regarding the concept of 'direct government' will notice similarities in Thoreau's beliefs. However, Thoreau's emphasis on the individual as the basis of government takes on a different tone. His insistence that a government's authority must have the sanction and consent of the governed suggests a level of dissatisfaction with the American government of his time.
Thoreau's Disillusionment with Government
Thoreau, a vocal abolitionist, was particularly disillusioned with the continued practice of slavery in the US and the Mexican war. He expressed his objections in a philosophical-anarchist manner, stating that the best government is one that governs least, and ideally, not at all. He believed that government is at best an expedient, and often, inexpedient. His views have inspired individuals like Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and Leo Tolstoy, all of whom championed principled opposition to government excesses and injustices.
Thoreau's Act of Civil Disobedience
A notable example of Thoreau's active resistance against what he perceived as injustice was his refusal to pay a specific tax, the poll tax, for six years. This act of civil disobedience led to his imprisonment for a night, a consequence he seemed unbothered by, as he believed he was freer within the prison walls than most people outside.
Questioning the Legitimacy of Government Today
In light of Thoreau's perspective, it's worth questioning the legitimacy of governments today, particularly those that suspended their constitutions at the onset of the pandemic. The time may be ripe for people to realize that we are at a historical juncture similar to the American Revolution. The question is, do we have the courage to oppose the excesses of our governments today?
The Urgency of Decisive Action
The need for decisive action has not been as urgent in the United States since the American Revolution. The enemy today is not outside our gates; it is within, pretending to be the friend of the people. Recent events in North Carolina and Florida serve as stark reminders of the federal government's intentions. The question of priority should leave no doubt that the time has come for true Americans to fight for the survival of their country.
Reevaluating the Role of Governments and Agencies
In addition to the recent hurricanes, the so-called 'vaccines' touted as a miracle cure for Covid-19 serve as another example of the questionable role of governments and their agencies. A recent study revealing the ingredients of most Covid vaccines should serve as a wake-up call for those who still believe in the benevolence of pharmaceutical companies.
Bottom Line
Drawing inspiration from Henry David Thoreau, perhaps it's time to embrace self-reliance and consider legitimate civil disobedience. This may involve facing the reality of reclaiming our independence. What are your thoughts on this perspective? Do you agree or disagree with the views presented in this article? Share it with your friends and engage in a thought-provoking discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
