Political Philosophy essays

Political Philosophy essays I am not impressed with Socrates arguments of the Laws, particularly the contract argument. While it is true that there is a certain type of obligation, or contract present between a citizen and the state in which he is a part of, that does not give the state the right to wrong him and treat him unfairly, which was clearly the case in this situation. The city wronged me, and its decision was not right, (26). Socrates obviously believes this and he should in turn fight this injustice. Despite the fact that the contract or obligation forces him to obey the laws of Athens, he should also have an obligation to himself and his believed rights as a human being. A contract works both ways even though throughout his life Socrates has indulged in all the advantages of Athenian citizenship he has also done his part and been a model, if not exemplary citizen of the state of Athens. He has done a great deal for the intellectual and cultural life of Athens and deserves a great deal of respect and gratitude from the state. Athens may have given him a great deal during his life, but does that then give them the right to take away the two most important things to him, his life and his freedom? In escaping, Socrates would violate the laws of Athens, while doing injustice to it. However, in its decision concerning the life of Socrates, Athens has also done him an injustice. Laws are not always fair and in certain circumstances they must be challenged and fought against. If no one ever questioned a law then they could never be changed or modified. Society needs to continually evolve and progress. Changing laws that are unjust ensures this development. If laws were never challenged then society would still be sustained by laws and regulations that are clearly outdated and completely irrelevant to the current time. Socrates must live, if not for himself and his friends, ...