Some claim that there are circumstances in which state agents are morally and
sometimes legally obliged not to comply with commands of higher state authority.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This claim stems from the ethical principle of conscientious objection, which holds that individuals have a right to refuse participation in activities that they believe to be morally wrong or unethical. This can apply to state agents who are commanded to carry out actions that violate their personal moral or ethical beliefs, even if it goes against higher state authority. In some cases, such refusals may even be legally protected, such as in instances of whistleblowing or if the actions in question are illegal or unconstitutional.

Some Claim That There Are Circumstances in Which State Agents