How Does Plato Show Sympathy For The Three Men

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The first judge shows his sympathy to the three men and his understanding of its unique circumstances of the case. However, contrary to his personal sympathy, he sentence Dudley, Stephens, and even Brooks who did not contribute to the actual murder to be executed for their crime; murder. The first judge does not let his emotions rule over his decision, solely bases his decision on the legal definition of the law, and he does not dare to change any of it. He states “I am not free to make the law”. His point of view is similar to Socrates’ philosophy of law, because Socrates strongly believes in the concept of “Rule of Law”, which means that everyone is equal under the law, and everyone should obey and uphold the law. The first judge demonstrates how not only the three men, but himself as well must obey the law in any circumstances. …show more content…
However, he recognizes different opinions of the public; some say the three men deserve punishment, and others show sympathy to the three men and their unfortunate situation. He balances both sides’ opinion, and find the men guilty, but of the lesser charge of manslaughter and sentence them to a six-month prison time. The second judge’s decision reflects on Plato’s point of view. Plato believes that the ultimate purpose of law is to be moral, but that it is also circumstantial. Although the judge charge the men guilty to maintain the purpose of law; to be moral, he still considers the rare circumstance and gives them a lesser