Meaning: Stokely Carmichael, a prominent activist in the American civil rights movement, uttered the powerful words, "There is a higher law than the law of government. That's the law of conscience." This quote encapsulates the essence of Carmichael's belief in the importance of individual morality and ethical responsibility, even in the face of oppressive or unjust governmental systems. Carmichael, also known as Kwame Ture, was a key figure in the fight for racial equality and social justice, and his words continue to resonate with those who advocate for human rights and ethical governance.

Carmichael's assertion that "there is a higher law than the law of government" speaks to the idea that moral principles and personal integrity should take precedence over obedience to state laws or regulations. Throughout history, individuals and communities have faced situations where the laws of the government have clashed with their deeply held beliefs about what is right and just. In such instances, Carmichael suggests that people should turn to their conscience – their internal sense of right and wrong – as a guiding force in their actions and decisions.

The concept of the "law of conscience" is central to Carmichael's philosophy. It emphasizes the idea that individuals have a moral obligation to act in accordance with their deeply held beliefs, even if doing so means challenging or disobeying the laws established by the government. This perspective aligns with the tradition of civil disobedience, popularized by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated for nonviolent resistance to unjust laws and systems.

Carmichael's quote also carries an implicit critique of the limitations of government and legal systems in ensuring justice and morality. It suggests that while laws and regulations are important for maintaining social order, they are not infallible and may not always reflect the highest moral standards. By invoking the "law of conscience," Carmichael encourages individuals to critically evaluate the ethical implications of the laws they are asked to follow and to hold themselves accountable to a higher standard of moral conduct.

In the context of the civil rights movement, Carmichael's words take on added significance. As an activist who fought against racial discrimination and systemic oppression, he understood the necessity of appealing to a higher moral authority when confronting the injustices perpetuated by the government and society at large. By urging individuals to prioritize their conscience, Carmichael challenged the status quo and empowered people to resist injustice and inequality through acts of moral courage and ethical defiance.

The enduring relevance of Carmichael's quote is evident in its resonance with ongoing struggles for justice and human rights around the world. In contemporary society, individuals and communities continue to grapple with the tension between governmental laws and their own moral convictions. Whether it is in the realms of social justice, environmental activism, or political dissent, the idea of turning to one's conscience as a guiding force for ethical action remains a potent and compelling principle.

In conclusion, Stokely Carmichael's assertion that "there is a higher law than the law of government. That's the law of conscience" encapsulates the enduring importance of individual morality and ethical responsibility in the face of governmental authority. His words serve as a reminder of the moral imperative to act in accordance with one's conscience and to hold oneself to a higher standard of ethical conduct, particularly in the pursuit of justice and human rights. Carmichael's quote continues to inspire and resonate with those who seek to challenge unjust laws and systems, and it stands as a powerful testament to the enduring significance of moral courage and ethical defiance in the face of oppression.