The attitude addressed by Socrates in the given statement may seem too radical and subjective to some people nowadays. Although being obsessed with money and constantly wishing to gain more is still seen as a vice, the fact of having large amounts of money does not make someone a bad person. Socrates claims that the wealth so blinds jurors that they do not strive to “understand the truth” or to achieve “the best possible state” of their souls. From my viewpoint, people have not changed all that much from the times of Socrates, but the question of wealth by itself stops them from reflecting on their lives and deeds that might need further consideration.
It is important to remember that many rich and successful people nowadays have achieved all that through their own efforts. Personal growth is not possible without constant struggle with oneself. Thus, if one is determined to work hard, they inevitably have to analyze their actions and the world around them. On the other hand, many people are too focused on certain aspects of their goals and only aim to achieve material success while ignoring its moral and ethical aspects of it.
Others, however, pay due attention to spiritual growth and developing consciousness, which is, I believe, what Socrates meant by the “truth.” They understand the importance of developing such views and work on themselves to reach that “best state of their souls.” Even after they have achieved immense wealth and prosperity, they find the time to focus on their inner selves.
Therefore, wealth and glory are not always an obstacle that stops people from growing spiritually. It can sometimes be a distraction, but in the end, it only depends on the person’s ability to understand the importance of spiritual growth to stay in harmony with themselves and the world around them.