Civil disobedience plays a crucial role in political activism by challenging unjust laws and social norms through peaceful protest and nonviolent resistance. By deliberately disobeying laws perceived as immoral or discriminatory, activists aim to raise awareness about social issues and put pressure on governments to enact change. Historical examples, such as Gandhi's campaigns for Indian independence and Martin Luther King Jr.'s fight for civil rights, illustrate how civil disobedience can prompt significant shifts in public consciousness and policy. This form of activism emphasizes moral responsibility and encourages citizens to engage in active resistance against oppression.