Answer to Question #276599 in Philosophy for Valeryia

Question

why does Socrates conclude that he would be

breaking a just contract if he escapes from prison (and

thus, that escaping would be to commit an injustice)?

(Remember: Socrates believes that it is always better to

suffer an injustice than to commit an injustice. Doing an

unjust act would stain his soul. Suffering an unjust act

stains someone else's soul.)

Answer 1

He could divest his children of Athenian citizenship, learning, and mode of living if he were to survive and flee. He would be creating a horrible influence for his children as well. By leaving and disobeying the law, he is demonstrating to and educating his children that if things become bad, do all you can to stay alive.