Civil Disobedience Audiobook By Henry David Thoreau cover art

Civil Disobedience

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Civil Disobedience

By: Henry David Thoreau
Narrated by: Jefferson Mays
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In 1849, 5 years before Henry David Thoreau published Walden, he wrote what has come to be recognized as the philosophic textbook for nonviolent revolution. "I think that we should be men first, and subjects afterward," Thoreau wrote. "It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right." Taking as his major premise the idea that "...government is best which governs least," Thoreau asserts that one's first loyalty is to one's own nature, and that only then, when one is true to oneself, can one be true to a government. This remarkable essay has inspired leaders from Gandhi to Martin Luther King, Jr.

Public Domain (P)2013 Recorded Books, Inc. Philosophy Political Science Politics & Government

Editorial reviews

Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience" was first published in 1849. Since then, Thoreau's philosophy (as delineated in this essay) has influenced politicians and civilians both at home and abroad. He establishes the dangers of letting government dictate human conscience. "The only obligation which I have a right to assume is to do at any time what I think right", the author writes. "Civil Disobedience" is a seminal text and this audiobook presents the perfect way to engage with this old classic. Narrator Larry McKeever gives a measured and powerful performance that is sure to inspire the listener.

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I would especially recommend this book for Thoreau's insights into government and slavery. Though there are other books that deal with these topics in greater depth, I still found this a worthwhile read.

Timeless Wisdom

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I remember reading this brief pamphlet in college and having to go for a drive in my car several times before I could finish it.

I shall not try to improve on Thoreau by recounting the text, but highly recommend this book for "How to be an actual American."

The price is right, the time to listen to it is right!

What we have forgotten!

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What if the Government actually read this book and applied it? First my life would be so much easier along with the rest of the world’s! I can see why this book has inspired so many rebels in this world to fight to change the system. Maybe we should make this required reading rather than hiding it away! What would this world be like then?

What if the Government

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The more time carries on, the more things stay the same. Different century same issues. Politicians will never solve the problems.

One of the best books by HDT

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I loved it! I blew it off when I was younger and I couldn't have been more wrong. This guy knows what he's talking about! he's disobeying civily! the performance complimented the meaning and sentiment of the material.

great performance and amazing writing

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