The purpose of this research is to examine an ethical theory that emerges from the Apology. The plan of the research will be to set forth the chief elements of such a theory, and then to discuss whether and to what degree the theory is persuasive or valid. The name that may be given to Socrates's ethical theory is that of integrity that is consistent in word and action. It might also be called, after Brickhouse and Smith, moral goodness. The ethical theory arises from Socrates's being brought to trial.
The pragmatist's answer to the dilemma posed by the various penalties associated with the charges against Socrates might be to test the limits of the less severe penalty by weathering the storm of controversy, waiting out the decline of reputation that Socrates predicts will befall his accusers, and then returning to a position of honor in the community, completely vindicatedeven sought afteras counselor of state or, as he might prefer, as teacher of the young. In other words, consider the poisonous environment of the trial as a temporary condition, and try to determine the real reasons that Socrates's accusers, particularly Meletus, have brought charges against him. Socrates does try to draw Meletus out in the course of his statement, but the subtext of their exchange suggests that the motives and accusations of the accusers, hypocritical, contradictory, and specious as they are, have a complex psychological and emotional content. To be sure, as Socrates says, "I am very unpopular with many people" (33), but the tempting, practical answer to this difficulty is to let the annoyances that attend the Socratic teaching method subside in the normal course of human activity.
This, Socrates does not do. Instead, he relies on principles and refuses to do more than name the psychological deficiencies of Meletus. His function in life is not to explain life but to explore it, following questions wherever they lead him. Ac...