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Into The Wild Analysis

Decent Essays

Unit Question: To what extent is civil disobedience crucial to the survival of humanity/ civilized society?

Civil disobedience is not only crucial to the survival of a civilized society, but also to one’s own happiness. From events in history and a variety of written texts, it is shown that civil disobedience can lead to a society or an individual’s happiness. Sources including Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer, events from the civil rights movement, and films about inequality and social standards show examples of civil disobedience and its impact on society.

Chris McCandless’ actions exemplifies civil disobedience to fulfil his dream and find happiness. Because of his actions, many argue that Chris was courageous and brave for sacrificing his …show more content…

Many individuals in the past have roles in civil disobedience, the most popular individual being Martin Luther King Junior. During the time, blacks were often discriminated and segregated from whites because of the color of their skin. Dr. King was one of the leaders who stood up against discrimination and influenced many across the nation. In Martin Luther King’s famous “I have a dream” speech, he states, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” In this statement, Dr. King implies that without someone to disobey society and fight for problems in society, nobody will live the life they wish to live. His act of disobeying society and fighting for equality shaped America into a more united and civilized society. Similarly, Mahatma Gandhi and his use of non-violent civil disobedience also greatly benefitted India’s society. In a video clip shown in class, Gandhi tells his followers not to fall into the path of society, but to walk his or her own path. If one doesn’t truly give up power to society, they will never truly be owned. Gandhi’s peaceful civil disobedience allowed India to achieve its independence and lead to happiness for himself, society, and generations

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