Intelligent Disobedience: When Breaking Rules Saves Lives

Intelligent Disobedience (ID) refers to the ability to recognize situations where following rules, instructions, or established procedures may lead to unintended harm, and instead making a decision that prioritizes safety and well-being. While obedience to guidelines is generally important for order and stability, there are instances where critical thinking and situational awareness become necessary to prevent adverse outcomes.

Throughout history, different cultures and traditions have recognized the importance of making thoughtful decisions in challenging circumstances. For example, certain teachings emphasize the idea that rules should serve to protect and support individuals, and in situations where strict adherence could result in harm, flexibility and judgment are encouraged.

When faced with a challenging situation, individuals can consider the following questions:

• Will following this instruction lead to harm or risk for myself or others?
• Are there unintended consequences that could arise from strict compliance?
• Is there a safer or more effective alternative available?

By assessing these factors, individuals can make informed choices that balance responsibility with practical judgment.

One well-known example of Intelligent Disobedience occurred when Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger made the decision to land US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River after engine failure. Standard procedures would have directed an attempt to return to an airport, but given the circumstances, he assessed that an alternative course of action would provide the best chance of safety for all onboard. His decision resulted in the successful rescue of all passengers and crew.

Medical professionals in emergency situations sometimes need to adapt established protocols to ensure critical care reaches those in need. For example, during disease outbreaks, healthcare teams may need to modify standard procedures to provide effective treatment while maintaining safety. In these cases, careful judgment and adaptability can help address urgent challenges.

In another historical example, a naval officer demonstrated thoughtful decision-making by reassessing a situation before proceeding with a critical action. This highlights how the ability to evaluate circumstances and make measured choices can contribute to positive outcomes.

The concept of Intelligent Disobedience is also seen in the training of guide dogs for individuals with visual impairments. These service animals are taught to recognize and respond to potential hazards by making independent decisions when necessary. For instance, if a handler gives a command to cross a street but an approaching vehicle poses a risk, the guide dog will refuse to move, prioritizing safety over instruction.

Intelligent Disobedience applies not only to individuals but also to organizations and communities. Encouraging responsible decision-making can help foster innovation, improve safety, and enhance problem-solving in various fields. By cultivating an environment that values both adherence to guidelines and the ability to assess situations critically, societies can support progress and well-being.

Intelligent Disobedience is not about disregarding rules or procedures arbitrarily. Rather, it is about applying sound judgment in situations where adaptation is needed. In areas such as aviation, medicine, public safety, and daily life, the ability to think critically and respond appropriately can contribute to positive outcomes. In a rapidly evolving world, fostering balanced decision-making helps individuals and communities navigate challenges effectively while maintaining safety and ethical considerations.

Jonathan Chee

The writer is the author of  Entrepreneurship Made Simple and Passion creates solutionswhileindifference invents excuses. 

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