Intelligent Disobedience

PREFACE

How I Learned About Intelligent Disobedience

WHAT EXACTLY IS INTELLIGENT DISOBEDIENCE? I had the same question when I first heard the term. These are two words that don’t usually fit together.

We know what obedience is: following orders or rules or established ways of doing things. Obeying usually keeps life running smoothly. Disobedience is a contrary response to these common obligations of life. Disobeying often results in unpleasant consequences. Those issuing the orders or setting the rules are inclined to enforce them, and they usually have the power to do so. Therefore, it’s reasonable to ask, under what circumstances can disobedience be considered intelligent?

I suspect you would agree that those with the authority to issue orders ...