<p>The prompt was : Is it important to question the ideas and decisions of people of authority? </p>
<p>The hypothesis that it is important to question the ideas and decisions of people in positions of authority is undoubtedly true. Although some advocates of fictional self would argue that respect for authority is vital in order for any group or organization to function. Moreover, they may believe these people have been appointed to a superior role because they are sufficiently experienced and capable leaders, therefore we should trust their judgment. However, these naive critics are too narrow-minded in their provincial ideology. Questioning the people in charge, even if they are experts or leaders in their fields, makes us better thinkers. It forces all concerned to defend old ideas and decisions and to consider new ones. Sometimes it can even correct old errors in thought and put an end to wrong actions. Three prominent archetypes that exemplify this hypothesis are Elizabeth Bennet, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Martin Luther.
Set in the English countryside during the Regency Era, Jane Austens novel Pride and Prejudice engenders a compelling argument illustrating the necessity to challenge the decisions made by those in charge. Elizabeth Bennet (the heroine) is a free-spirited individual who differs substantially from the other female characters of the novel as she refuses to be wed to a man to whom she does not love. During this period until you are married you fall under the control of your parents. Mrs.Bennet is set on her daughter marrying the pompous Mr.Collins and threatens to never see her daughter again if she refuses. Elizabeth, however, challenges this and declines the wedding proposal. The famous quote Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance doesnt bode well for Elizabeth, who wont allow herself to be forced into a loveless marriage. Analogously, a further precedent which poignantly portrays the significance of interrogating officials is the case surrounding the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who lavishly spent $1,700 on scented candles, $23,300 on flower arrangements and $31,600 on gardening at his official residence in Jerusalem, among other costs totaling about $909,000 in 2012. Severe criticism has been aroused due to the fact that his government raised taxes and slashed services earlier this year to decrease a swelling budget deficit. Coupled with a rising cost of living, Israelis have for years complained that they struggle to make ends meet. Just two years ago, hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets to protest the country's high cost of living. Netanyahu can no longer look his citizens in the eye and swear that there must be cuts to their welfare, health care, security and education. This change has occurred due to the leading bodies questioning his personal expense sheet. Opposition leader Isaac Herzog has said The public will conduct their own introspection and just as they sent him to the prime minister's residence they will as easily remove him.
The opposition to the Roman Catholic Church and its false teaching came to a head in the sixteenth century, when a monk named Martin Luther posted his 95 propositions against the Catholic Church on the Castle Church door at Wittenberg, Germany. Luthers intention was to bring reform to the Roman Catholic Church, and in doing so he challenged the authority of the Pope. With the refusal of the Roman Catholic Church to heed Luthers call to reformation and return to biblical doctrines and practices, the Protestant Reformation began. The importance of Luthers challenge is thoroughly highlighted by the effect it has caused. The Reformation has profoundly affected the modern view of politics and law. Prior to the Reformation, the Church governed politics; it controlled emperors and kings and governed the law of lands. Furthermore, The Reformation has laid down once and for all the right and obligation of each individuals conscience, and the right to follow the dictates of that individual conscience. Many men who talk lightly and glibly about "liberty" neither know nor realize that they owe their liberty to this event.
In summation, in the words of Hunter S. Thompson, There are always risks in challenging power, but the risks of not challenging decisions are more dangerous, even fatal. The axiom that it is important to questions the decisions of people in authority is affirmed.</p>