Topic > Henry David Thoreau's Views on the Role of Government in Civil Disobedience

Henry David Thoreau, the author of Civil Disobedience, clearly shows signs of being a rebel. He has many negative opinions and ideas about government, even focusing on the American government. Thoreau believes that government should essentially not do its job. The text reads: “The best government is that which does not govern at all… Government, at best, is only an expedient; but most governments are generally, and sometimes all governments, inexpedient. (1)” It can be indicated that Thoreau declares governments ineffective and unnecessary. This makes him a rebel because he claims that the government is almost redundant. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayThe text also says, “Let every man make known what kind of government would command his respect, and this will be a step towards obtaining it.” . (3)” This also shows that Thoreau is a rebel because he is defending the minority of the people. He would like everyone's idea to be heard, as well as the implementation of the majority and minority of the people. Thoreau believes that every man's idea is heard and put into practice. This is not as effective as acting on what the majority of the state wants. The song that characterizes Henry David Thoreau, the author of Civil Disobedience, is Stay at Home Dad by Macklemore. This song analyzes the work of a “stay at home” parent; especially from the perspective of a dad who contradicts the stereotype that women are usually “stay at home” parents. The lyrics are: “…we have been conditioned to believe that we must fit into a role that has been brainwashed by Babylon, describing our role as having to match our genitals, hell no. It is men who go to work and women raise children, but I know that the most difficult job is to support the family, so I am doing a back-to-back job, without trades, with this briefcase, for 2010, I will stay at home. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay As you can see, these texts argue that people do not have to give in to stereotypes, rather they can do whatever they want in life. Thoreau also believes that people should act on what they believe. The article says: “If I engage in other pursuits and contemplations, I must first make sure, at least, that I do not pursue them by sitting on another man's shoulders. I must first get down to him, so that he too can pursue his thoughts. (5)” Thoreau argues that one should not become attached to something because of society's expectations. People should be more free-willed and extroverted about their own intentions and not about others.