What is the primary purpose of civil disobedience?

The primary purpose of civil disobedience is nonviolent refusal to obey laws that are believed to be unjust. This form of protest is rooted in ethical and moral principles where individuals or groups intentionally break certain laws in order to highlight perceived injustices and invoke social change. Historically, civil disobedience has been a powerful tool for social movements, such as those led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi, who advocated for justice and equality through peaceful means. By refusing to follow laws that are deemed unfair, the aim is to stimulate dialogue around these issues, encourage reform, and raise public awareness, rather than to create chaos or promote violence. This approach distinguishes civil disobedience from other forms of protest that may involve aggression or disruption solely for the sake of disturbance.