Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)
Civil disobedience is when someone breaks a law on purpose to show that they think the law is wrong or unfair. They do this without hurting anyone or damaging anything. They want people to notice and talk about the law and maybe change it. Sometimes, people can change the law by talking and being fair, but sometimes they need to protest to make things better.
Civil disobedience is when someone intentionally breaks a law that they believe is unfair or wrong, but they do it in a peaceful way to draw attention to the issue. This is usually done to bring about change or reform in the law.
For example, during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, many people participated in sit-ins at segregated lunch counters. They would sit at the counter and refuse to leave, even though it was against the law for them to be there. This was a form of civil disobedience because they were breaking the law, but they were doing it peacefully to draw attention to the unfairness of segregation.
Another example is when environmental activists chain themselves to trees that are scheduled to be cut down. They are breaking the law by obstructing the work of the loggers, but they are doing it to draw attention to the importance of preserving the environment.
Civil disobedience is a way for people to peacefully protest against laws that they believe are unjust. It can be a powerful tool for bringing about change, but it is important to remember that it should always be done in a peaceful and nonviolent way.