Question

How did Thoreau’s general opinion of government relate to his imprisonment, as described in "Civil Disobedience"?

A. He believed that government was corrupt and that he was justified in not paying his taxes despite being put in prison.

B. He believed that government was dishonest and that his imprisonment could affect major governmental decisions.

C. He believed that government was a positive force and that his imprisonment could improve the relationship between the government and the people.

D. He believed that government was helpful to any society and that the reasons for his own imprisonment were just.

Answer 1

The answer is

A. He believed that government was corrupt and that he was justified in not paying his taxes despite being put in prison.

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Answer 2

Answer: A. He believed that government was corrupt and that he was justified in not paying his taxes despite being put in prison.

Thoreau states in "Civil Disobedience" that people have the right and the duty to act according to their principles. Moreover, the government is supposed to be accountable to the population. He argues that the government has not been so, and therefore, he is justified in ending his obligations towards the government. He also argues that he cannot, in good conscience, contribute to acts that he believes immoral and that the government funds through his taxes. He refused to pay taxes, and even though he was imprisoned, his opinions remained unchanged.