November 1, 2024
The author's definition of defy is "to act in accordance with your true values when there is pressure to do otherwise." We've been conditioned since early childhood to obey authorities, rules, and social norms. But what happens when we're asked to do something that we know is wrong? While most people, according to Sah, envision themselves standing up for the right thing, scientific studies and history prove differently. Drawing examples from Nazi Germany to the murder of George Floyd to the Challenger tragedy, Sah shows how difficult it actually is to defy authority. The key to standing up for what's right, says the author, is taking a moment to think about who you are (your personal values) and what a person like you would do in this situation. Sah doesn't downplay the costs of defying and doesn't expect us all to make heroic stands like some of her historical examples. But even small acts (questioning, refusing unnecessary tests, challenging a slur) can make a difference. She urges readers to build on their actions and mentally prepare for these situations in this inspiring call to action.
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