APOLOGY TO SOCRATES: REVISITING THE PUBLIC SPHERE THROUGH CORRUPTION AND JUSTICE

APA full citation: Filho, C. I. (2024, November 29). Apology to Socrates: Revisiting the Public Sphere Through Corruption and Justice. EBS Project Research Centre. https://www.ebscentre.org/law-and-politicalscience/

Abstract

Socrates' trial and condemnation in ancient Athens remain emblematic of the intersection between public morality and political corruption. His defense, immortalized by Plato in the Apology, challenges the misuse of public power to silence dissent. This article revisits Socrates' trial as a lens to analyze corruption's systemic impacts on modern democracies, with a focus on Brazil and Portugal. Drawing parallels between ancient Athens and contemporary cases of public corruption, such as Brazil's Operation Car Wash (Operação Lava Jato) and Portugal's Operação Marquês, this study highlights the fragility of justice in political systems susceptible to manipulation. Socrates' philosophical stance underscores the timeless necessity of accountability and ethics in public life. The analysis contributes to ongoing debates about strengthening democratic institutions against the pervasive threats of corruption.

Keywords: Socrates, corruption, public sphere, justice, democracy, Brazil, Portugal

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Introduction

Socrates’ trial in 399 BCE, culminating in his death sentence, symbolizes a critical moment in the history of justice and public ethics. Accused of corrupting the youth and impiety, Socrates stood before an Athenian court, defending not only his actions but the very essence of truth and virtue in governance. This event serves as a cornerstone for exploring how public institutions can become entangled in corruption and misuse of power.

Corruption undermines democratic values, eroding public trust in governance. While ancient Athens saw the execution of its greatest philosopher, contemporary societies continue to grapple with institutional failures. Recent scandals in Brazil and Portugal highlight how systemic corruption hinders justice and perpetuates inequality. This article explores these parallels, aiming to draw lessons from Socrates' trial that are applicable to today’s fight against corruption.

Socrates and the misuse of power…

Socrates' trial exemplifies the misuse of legal systems to suppress dissent. Accusers such as Meletus, Anytus, and Lycon represented a political elite uncomfortable with Socratic philosophy, which exposed their incompetence and moral failures (Brickhouse & Smith, 2004). This misuse of legal mechanisms resonates with modern cases where power dynamics corrupt justice systems.

Contemporary Corruption in Brazil and Portugal

Brazil: The Case of Operation Car Wash

Operation Car Wash (Operação Lava Jato) uncovered an extensive corruption network involving Petrobras, Brazil’s state oil company, and numerous politicians. This investigation revealed how corporate collusion with political elites diverted billions from public funds. Although heralded as a landmark anti-corruption effort, critics argue it became politicized, undermining its credibility (Arantes, 2021).

Portugal: Operation Marquês

Operation Marquês spotlighted José Sócrates, Portugal’s former prime minister, accused of corruption and money laundering. Despite significant evidence, the drawn-out judicial process has raised questions about accountability and the ability of institutions to prosecute high-profile cases effectively (Ferreira & Santos, 2022).

Both cases highlight the challenges of dismantling entrenched corruption, where elites manipulate legal systems for personal or political gain.

Lessons from Socrates for Modern Democracies

Socrates’ unwavering commitment to truth and ethical governance offers timeless lessons for combating corruption. He argued that justice must prioritize the common good over individual interests, a principle often absent in modern political systems plagued by corruption. Transparency, public participation, and robust legal frameworks are essential to uphold democratic values.

Conclusion

Socrates' trial serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of politicized justice and systemic corruption. Modern democracies like Brazil and Portugal continue to struggle with similar challenges, underscoring the need for institutional reform and a renewed commitment to ethical governance. By revisiting Socrates’ teachings, societies can draw inspiration to build resilient institutions that serve justice and uphold public trust.

Carlos I. Filho

References

Arantes, R. B. (2021). Corruption and the rule of law in Brazil: Challenges of judicial accountability. International Journal of Law and Politics, 47(2), 123-141.

Brickhouse, T. C., & Smith, N. D. (2004). Plato’s Socrates. Oxford University Press.

Ferreira, A., & Santos, J. (2022). Judicial inefficiency and political corruption in Portugal: The case of Operation Marquês. European Journal of Political Studies, 58(3), 345-361.

Plato. (1997). The Apology of Socrates. In J. M. Cooper (Ed.), Complete Works (pp. 17-36). Hackett Publishing Company.

Plato. (2013). The Apology of Socrates. Trad. Maria Lacerda de Souza (Portuguese), Public Domain.