What is characterized by the intentional disobedience of law for moral reasons?

The concept characterized by the intentional disobedience of law for moral reasons is known as civil disobedience. This form of protest involves individuals or groups deliberately breaking laws they consider unjust in order to bring about change in legislation or government policy. Prominent figures, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi, have used civil disobedience to highlight social injustices and mobilize public opinion against oppressive laws.

Civil disobedience operates on the belief that certain moral principles can outweigh legal obligations, and it encourages a deeper examination of morality in governance. People engaging in civil disobedience typically accept the legal consequences of their actions as a way to reinforce their message and demonstrate commitment to their cause. This method is rooted in the idea that laws should align with ethical standards and that individuals have a responsibility to challenge laws that violate their moral convictions.