In Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," Atticus Finch explains his reasons for defending Tom Robinson, a Black man accused of raping a white woman, through a series of conversations with his children, Scout and Jem. Here are the key points of his rationale:
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Moral Integrity: Atticus believes that everyone deserves a fair trial and that it is his duty as a lawyer to defend those who are marginalized and oppressed, regardless of their race. He emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in the legal system.
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Setting an Example: Atticus wants to teach his children about empathy, morality, and the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it's unpopular. He tells them that it’s a matter of personal ethics and self-respect.
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Belief in Tom's Innocence: Though it is a difficult case, Atticus believes in Tom Robinson's innocence and is committed to fighting for a man who is unjustly accused. He feels a moral obligation to seek justice for Tom.
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Challenge to Racism: By taking the case, Atticus is also challenging the deeply ingrained racism of the society in which he lives. He understands that defending Tom will be controversial, but he believes that confronting these societal issues is necessary for progress.
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The Role of the Law: Atticus views the law as a fundamental aspect of democracy and believes that defending Tom is a way to uphold the principles of justice and equality before the law.
Overall, Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson is rooted in his strong sense of morality, commitment to justice, and desire to instill values of empathy and fairness in his children.