Peaceful resistance to unjust laws generally leads to a reinforcement of freedom in a free society. By challenging government power more effectively than otherwise would be possible, civil disobedience checks the power of the government and maintains the balance of power. The people should always maintain power over the government, and not vice versa. However, in order to maintain its effectiveness, civil disobedience must be reserved for use only after other options have been exhausted. That way, civil disobedience will forever remain a pillar of free society.