Question

(mc)
the text below was written in 1918:
\i listened to all that was said in this court in support and justification of this prosecution, but my mind remains unchanged. i look upon the espionage law as a despotic enactment in flagrant conflict with democratic principles and with the spirit of free institutions...
your honor, i have stated in this court that i am opposed to the social system in which we live; that i believe in a fundamental change—but if possible by peaceable and orderly means.\
why does eugene debs reject the prosecutions arguments in support of the espionage act?
he stands in opposition to the current political system.
he denies being in violation of the espionage act.
he believes that the espionage act is contradictory to democratic principles and freedom.
he believes that his actions were justified based on his kinship with all living beings.

Explanation:

The text clearly states that Eugene Debs views the Espionage Law as despotic and in conflict with democratic principles and the spirit of free - institutions. This directly indicates his reason for rejecting the prosecution's arguments.

Answer:

He believes that the Espionage Act is contradictory to democratic principles and freedom.