Mentor/s
Prof. Joanne F. Kabak
Participation Type
Paper Talk
Abstract
This paper explores the ethical dilemma of whether it is more ethical to obey the law or to resist laws that are morally questionable. To examine this issue, I draw a parallel between two historical and contemporary examples: Nazi officers during World War II who implemented genocidal policies, and modern-day ICE officers involved in the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants. By analyzing the motivations, mindsets, and personal responsibility of individuals who enforce state policies, this essay questions the moral agency of those who "just follow orders." It considers the psychological and ethical consequences of such actions, and challenges readers to reflect on the boundaries between duty, law, and moral responsibility.
College and Major available
Journal & Media Production MA
Academic Level
Graduate student
Location
Session 10: Digital Commons & West 223J
Start Day/Time
4-25-2025 9:30 AM
End Day/Time
4-25-2025 10:45 AM
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Prize Categories
Best Multidisciplinary Research or Collaboration, Most Transformative for Social Justice, Most Creative
To Follow The Rule Or Not To Follow The Rue, That Is The Question
Session 10: Digital Commons & West 223J
This paper explores the ethical dilemma of whether it is more ethical to obey the law or to resist laws that are morally questionable. To examine this issue, I draw a parallel between two historical and contemporary examples: Nazi officers during World War II who implemented genocidal policies, and modern-day ICE officers involved in the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants. By analyzing the motivations, mindsets, and personal responsibility of individuals who enforce state policies, this essay questions the moral agency of those who "just follow orders." It considers the psychological and ethical consequences of such actions, and challenges readers to reflect on the boundaries between duty, law, and moral responsibility.
Students' Information
Beatrice Lovato is a graduate international student in the Journalism and Media Production program and will graduate in August 2025.