Civil disobedience is a tactic used within social movements, where individuals deliberately disobey laws or regulations to protest against perceived injustices. It emphasizes nonviolent resistance to challenge authority or raise awareness about social issues, often aiming to inspire dialogue or promote reform. Civil disobedience has historically played a crucial role in movements for civil rights, environmental justice, and other social causes. By highlighting the moral implications of laws, it seeks to create public discourse that can lead to significant political and societal changes.